Sinusitis: Your Guide to Symptoms Relief and Treatment
Know about sinusitis, what it is, different types, what causes it, recognising symptoms, diagnosis and various treatment options and more.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 10th Sep, 2025
Introduction
That relentless facial pressure, the nagging headache, the never-ending stuffy nose if you’ve ever experienced sinusitis, you know how utterly miserable it can be. Far more severe than a common cold, sinusitis (also known as a sinus infection) is the swelling or inflammation of the tissue lining your sinuses. This inflammation traps fluid, allowing germs to grow and leading to a painful infection. Millions of people are affected by this condition every year, searching for effective relief. We’ll help you navigate the discomfort and know exactly when it’s time to seek professional help.
What Exactly is Sinusitis?
Your Sinuses: The Air Filters in Your Skull
Your sinuses are four pairs of air-filled cavities located behind your forehead, nasal bones, cheeks, and eyes. In their healthy state, they are lined with a thin layer of mucus that traps dust, germs, and other particles in the air. Tiny hair-like projections called cilia then sweep the mucus towards the back of the throat, where it slides down to the stomach to be neutralised. This is a continuous, natural process you don’t even notice. Sinusitis occurs when these cavities become blocked and filled with fluid. This blockage is usually caused by swelling due to an infection or an allergic reaction, disrupting the normal flow of mucus and creating the perfect environment for bacteria or viruses to multiply.
The Difference Between a Cold and a Sinus Infection
It's easy to confuse the two, as a common cold is the most frequent precursor to acute sinusitis. The key difference is duration and symptom focus. A cold typically peaks within 2-3 days and improves within a week to 10 days, primarily causing a runny nose and sneezing. Sinus infection symptoms, however, often include more localised facial pain and pressure and persist beyond 10 days. A cold is viral, while sinusitis can be viral or, if symptoms drag on, develop into a secondary bacterial infection requiring different treatment.
Consult a General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
The Different Types of Sinusitis
Acute Sinusitis
This is the most common form. Acute sinusitis often starts with cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose and facial pain that come on suddenly. It typically lasts for 2-4 weeks. The symptoms are pronounced but are usually resolved with appropriate treatment and home care.
Chronic Sinusitis
When swelling and inflammation of the sinuses last for 12 weeks or longer despite treatment attempts, it’s classified as chronic sinusitis. The symptoms can be less severe but are persistent and debilitating. It is often driven by ongoing inflammation rather than an active infection. People with allergies, asthma, or structural nasal issues are more prone to chronic sinus problems.
Recognising the Symptoms: It's More Than Just a Stuffy Nose
Common Symptoms of Acute Sinusitis
The hallmark signs of an acute infection are pressure and pain. Key symptoms include:
Facial pain or pressure: Especially around the forehead, eyes, and cheeks.
Nasal congestion: A blocked nose making it hard to breathe.
Thick, discoloured nasal discharge: Green or yellow mucus.
Loss of smell or taste.
Cough and postnasal drip: Mucus dripping down the back of the throat, often causing a cough that worsens at night.
The Tell-Tale Signs of Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis shares many symptoms with the acute form, but doctors focus on duration. You must have at least two of the following symptoms for 12 weeks or more:
A feeling of congestion or fullness in the face.
Nasal obstruction or blockage.
Pus in the nasal cavity.
Discoloured postnasal drainage.
Additionally, you may experience a headache, bad breath, and dental pain.
What Causes Sinusitis? The Usual Suspects
Infections: Viral and Bacterial
The vast majority of acute sinusitis cases (over 90%) are caused by viruses, such as those responsible for the common cold. When the sinuses become blocked, a secondary bacterial sinus infection can develop. Bacterial infections are more likely when symptoms are severe, last longer than 10 days, or initially improve but then return worse than before (a pattern known as "double worsening").
Allergies and Environmental Irritants
Chronic inflammation from allergies (like hay fever) is a primary driver of chronic sinusitis. Inhaled allergens cause ongoing swelling in the nasal and sinus tissues, blocking the drainage pathways. Environmental irritants like smoke, pollution, and chemical fumes can have a similar effect.
Structural Issues and Other Factors
Some people are predisposed to sinus issues due to their anatomy. These include:
Nasal polyps: Small, benign growths in the lining of the nasal passage that can block sinuses.
Deviated nasal septum: A crooked wall between the nostrils that can restrict sinus passages.
Weakened immune system or illnesses that affect mucus movement (like cystic fibrosis).
How is Sinusitis Diagnosed?
Physical Examination and Medical History
Most doctors can diagnose sinusitis based on your symptoms and a physical exam. They will ask about the duration and nature of your symptoms and press on your sinuses to check for tenderness. They will look inside your nose with a light to check for inflammation, polyps, or discoloured mucus.
When Further Testing is Needed
For chronic sinusitis or recurrent infections, your doctor might recommend:
Nasal endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a light (endoscope) is inserted into your nose to see the inside of your sinuses.
Imaging tests: A CT scan can provide detailed images of your sinuses and nasal area, revealing deep inflammation or physical blockages.
Allergy testing: To identify any allergens that might be causing chronic inflammation.
If your condition is complex, a doctor might recommend specific tests to identify the root cause. Apollo24|7 offers convenient home collection for a range of allergy and blood tests to help rule out other contributing factors.
Finding Relief: Effective Sinusitis Treatment Options
At-Home Remedies and Supportive Care
These methods are the first line of defense and can provide significant sinus pressure relief:
Nasal irrigation: Using a neti pot or saline spray helps flush out mucus and allergens.
Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a shower or bowl of hot water moistens sinus passages and thins mucus.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water, juice, or broth helps thin mucus.
Rest: Giving your body time to fight the infection is crucial.
Warm compresses: Applying a warm cloth to your face can ease facial pain.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine) can reduce nasal swelling but should not be used for more than 3 days to avoid rebound congestion.
Pain relievers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage headache and facial pain.
Saline nasal sprays are safe to use as often as needed for moisture.
Prescription Treatments
Corticosteroid nasal sprays (e.g., fluticasone) are often prescribed for chronic sinusitis to reduce inflammation.
Antibiotics are only necessary if a bacterial sinus infection is confirmed. They are ineffective against viral infections.
Immunotherapy: If allergies are the root cause, allergy shots or drops can help reduce your body's reaction over time.
Surgical Options for Chronic Cases
For cases that don't respond to medication, endoscopic sinus surgery might be an option. An ENT surgeon uses an endoscope to remove polyps, scar tissue, or bone to widen the sinus openings and improve drainage.
Can You Prevent Sinusitis?
While not all cases are preventable, you can reduce your risk:
Manage your allergies with medication and avoidance strategies.
Wash your hands frequently to avoid colds and flu.
Use a humidifier in dry indoor air to keep sinus membranes moist.
Avoid cigarette smoke and polluted air.
Stay up-to-date on your flu and pneumococcal vaccines.
Conclusion
Living with the pressure and pain of sinusitis can significantly impact your quality of life, but it is a highly manageable condition. Understanding the difference between a simple cold and a true sinus infection is the first step toward effective treatment. By employing supportive at-home care like nasal irrigation and steam, you can often find relief for acute cases. However, it is crucial to listen to your body. Persistent or severe symptoms warrant professional medical advice to rule out complications and receive appropriate treatment, which may include prescription sprays or, in rare cases, antibiotics for a bacterial infection.
Consult a General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Consult a General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Dr. Riti Srivastava
General Practitioner
12 Years • MD (Physician)
Gautam Buddha Nagar
Shri Krishna Clinic, Gautam Buddha Nagar
Dr. Avinash Pasuparthy
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS
Visakhapatnam
Apollo Clinic Vizag, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Ritesh Motghare
General Practitioner
18 Years • MBBS PGCDM
Nagpur
HEALTH CENTRE VNIT NAGPUR, Nagpur
Dr Bhargav Vuppumalla
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS MD GENERAL MEDICINE
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Gunashree V L
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
3 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a sinus infection usually last?
Acute sinusitis typically lasts 2-4 weeks. Subacute sinusitis lasts 4-12 weeks. If your sinusitis symptoms last for more than 12 weeks, it is classified as chronic.
2. What is the best medicine to treat a sinus infection?
The 'best' medicine depends on the cause. For viral infections, OTC pain relievers, decongestants, and saline rinses are best. For a confirmed bacterial sinus infection, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics. For chronic cases, corticosteroid nasal sprays are often most effective.
3. Can sinusitis cause a fever?
Yes, it's possible, especially with acute bacterial sinusitis. A low-grade fever is more common than a high one. A high fever could be a sign of a more serious complication.
4. How can I drain my sinuses naturally at home?
The most effective natural method for sinus drainage is using a neti pot or saline spray for nasal irrigation. Steam inhalation from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water and staying well-hydrated also help significantly.
5. When should I be worried about sinusitis?
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms like a high fever, confusion, double vision or other visual changes, severe headache, or swelling or redness around your eyes, as these could indicate a serious complication.