Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)

Sinus Infection

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the tissues in your sinuses (spaces in your forehead, cheeks and nose usually filled with air). It causes facial pain, a stuffy or runny nose, and sometimes a fever and other symptoms. It’s usually caused by the common cold, but other viruses, bacteria, fungi and allergies can also cause sinusitis.

Symptoms and Causes

Common symptoms of a sinus infection include:

• Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down your throat).

• Runny nose with thick yellow or green mucus.

• Stuffy nose.

• Facial pressure (particularly around your nose, eyes and forehead). This might get worse when you move your head around or bend over.

• Pressure or pain in your teeth.

• Ear pressure or pain.

• Fever.

• Bad breath (halitosis) or a bad taste in your mouth.

• Cough.

• Headache.

• Tiredness.

Prevention

Depending on the cause, there are a few ways to reduce your risk of getting sinus infections, including:

• Rinsing your nose with saline (salt water) as directed by your provider.

• Taking steps to prevent allergies. This includes medications, allergy shots and avoiding your known allergy triggers (like dust, pollen or smoke).

• Using steroid nasal sprays if your provider recommends them.

• Establishing good hand washing and other habits that reduce your risk of getting sick with infectious diseases.

• Avoiding smoke. There are ways to help you quit smoking, if you do.