Sinusitis: what it feels like and how to get relief
Sinusitis means your sinuses — the air-filled pockets in your face — are inflamed. You’ll notice pressure or pain around the forehead, cheeks, or between the eyes, thick nasal discharge, reduced sense of smell, and often a blocked nose. It can make you feel tired and foggy, and sometimes your teeth ache. Symptoms that last under four weeks are usually acute; longer than 12 weeks is chronic.
What causes sinusitis?
Most cases start with a cold or an allergy flare. Viruses cause the majority of acute cases, so antibiotics won’t help at first. Bacterial infections show up when symptoms worsen after a week or two, or when there’s severe pain and fever. Allergies, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or repeated exposure to irritants like smoke can keep sinuses inflamed and lead to chronic problems.
Think about timing: if your symptoms follow a cold and slowly improve, it was probably viral. If you feel better then worse, or if one side hurts a lot, that can point to a bacterial infection. If allergies are at play, symptoms often match pollen or pet exposure and come back each season.
Practical relief and treatment steps
Start with simple, low-risk fixes you can do at home. Saline nasal rinses or sprays help clear mucus and improve drainage. Steam inhalation or warm compresses on your face ease pressure. Over-the-counter pain relievers reduce discomfort. Nasal steroid sprays — like fluticasone — reduce inflammation but need a few days to work; they’re a smart step if congestion lasts more than a couple of days.
Avoid decongestant pills or sprays for more than a few days; they can cause rebound congestion. If you suspect a bacterial infection (high fever, facial swelling, colored discharge that worsens), see a clinician — antibiotics are only needed in a minority of cases. For chronic sinusitis or repeated infections, an ENT specialist can check for nasal polyps, structural issues, or recommend targeted treatments such as allergy management or surgery.
Prevention matters. Use a humidifier in dry homes, treat allergic triggers, wash hands often, and quit smoking or avoid secondhand smoke. Getting seasonal allergies under control with antihistamines or immunotherapy can cut down repeat sinusitis episodes.
If you’re unsure or symptoms are severe — fever over 101.3°F, vision changes, neck stiffness, or very bad facial swelling — seek urgent care. For ongoing or unclear problems, a primary care visit or ENT consult will get you the right tests and a clearer plan. Small changes at home often bring real relief, and when they don’t, doctors can help you find a lasting solution.
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