What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is the infection of your sinuses, which are four paired, air-filled cavities behind the cheekbones and forehead, connected by narrow passages to your nose. Sinuses make mucus which then drains out through your nose, keeping your nose free from bacteria and allergens. When they become infected, the sinus lining swells, causing a blockage and preventing the mucus from draining.
Types of sinusitis
There are different types of sinusitis depending on how long you have it and the cause:
- Acute sinusitis – clears up in 12 weeks, though typically lasts no more than four weeks.
- Chronic sinusitis – lasts longer than 12 weeks.
- Recurrent sinusitis – repeated flare-ups of sinusitis, at least four times a year.
- Viral sinusitis – caused by viruses like the common cold.
- Bacterial sinusitis – caused by bacteria, sometimes following a virus.
- Fungal sinusitis – caused by fungus, usually more serious than other types.
What are the symptoms of sinusitis?
The most common symptoms of sinusitis include:
- Nasal congestion – a stuffy or blocked nose.
- Facial pain or pressure – commonly in the forehead, cheeks and around the eyes.
- Nasal discharge – clear, brown, yellow or green.
- Reduced sense of smell and taste.
- Fever.
Other symptoms include:
- Postnasal drip – mucus dripping down the throat.
- Toothache.
- Sinus headache.
- Bad breath (halitosis).
- Ear pressure or pain.
- Cough.
- Tiredness and feeling generally unwell.
Bacterial sinusitis may be more likely if:
- Symptoms last longer than 10 days
- Pain is severe and focused in one area
- You have a blocked nose
- Symptoms return after improving
What causes sinusitis?
Viral infections
Acute sinusitis is often triggered by viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Bacterial infections
Bacterial sinusitis may follow a viral infection. Common bacteria include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.
Dental infections
Infections in the upper teeth can spread into the maxillary sinuses and cause sinusitis.
Allergies
Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pets and mould spores can inflame the nasal passages and block sinus drainage.
Sinusitis risk factors
- Smoking
- Asthma
- Weakened immune system
- Impaired ciliary function
- Nasal polyps
- Deviated septum
- Water sports
- Facial injury
- Previous sinus surgery
- Environmental irritants
Is sinusitis contagious?
No, sinusitis itself is not contagious. However, the viruses or bacteria that trigger it can spread.
- Wash your hands regularly
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Stay home if unwell
- Dispose of tissues immediately
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces
How sinusitis is diagnosed
Your pharmacist or GP will assess your symptoms and may examine your sinuses or nose. You may be referred to an ENT specialist if symptoms persist.
- Nasal endoscopy
- CT scan
How to treat sinusitis
Mild acute sinusitis can often be treated at home:
- Rest
- Fluids
- Over-the-counter pain relief
- Saltwater nasal rinses
- Warm facial compress
For chronic sinusitis:
- Avoid allergy triggers
- Take antihistamines if needed
- Do not smoke
- Maintain good dental hygiene
- Avoid scuba diving
You can visit your local Day Lewis Pharmacy for advice and treatment.
What happens if sinusitis is left untreated?
Acute sinusitis often clears within four weeks, but it can develop into chronic sinusitis.
- Orbital complications
- Intracranial complications
- Bone infection (osteomyelitis)
How to prevent sinusitis
- Wash hands regularly
- Avoid smoke and pollution
- Manage allergies
- Avoid sick contacts
- Use a humidifier if air is dry
FAQs
Where are your sinuses?
- Maxillary – cheekbones
- Frontal – forehead
- Ethmoid – between the eyes
- Sphenoid – behind the nose
Will sinusitis go away on its own?
Many acute cases resolve within four weeks, but chronic or bacterial sinusitis may need treatment.
