What is a sinus infection?
The sinuses are hollow spaces within the bones of the face. Collectively, they’re called the paranasal sinuses. The sinuses are part of your nose and respiratory system.
There are four pairs of sinuses that are linked together, which are located in the cheeks (maxillary), forehead (frontal), around your eyes near the bridge of your nose (ethmoidal), and behind your eyes, deeper in your skull (sphenoid).
When the sinuses become inflamed, swollen or infected, this is medically known as sinusitis or rhinosinusitis. Sinusitis can be acute (lasting less than 4 weeks), sub-acute (lasting between 4 and 12 weeks) or chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks, or recurring).
The main difference between a cold and sinus infection is the severity and duration of symptoms. Cold symptoms usually last from five to ten days and resolve themselves, while sinusitis can last for weeks or months. Medical treatment may be required for sinusitis.
How do you get a sinus infection?
Sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the nasal passages caused by too much mucus or swelling of the sinus lining which can block the narrow channels of the nasal passages*. This can occur due to:
Upper respiratory infections (most commonly colds)
Allergies such as hay fever
Nasal polyps which can block the nasal passages or sinuses
Deviated nasal septum, where the wall between the nostrils is crooked and restricts sinus passages
complications of medical conditions such as cystic fibrosis, HIV and other immune system-related conditions
Acute sinusitis is usually caused by a cold or hay fever, whereas chronic sinusitis is often a result of underlying conditions or structural problems in the sinus or nasal cavity.
Adults
Children
Adults
Inflamed nasal passages
Blocked nose and congestion
Thick, yellow or green discharge from the nose
Drainage of mucus down the back of the throat
Headache or pressure in your head or face
Pain, tenderness and swelling around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead, especially when you lean forward
Aching teeth in the upper jaw
Reduced sense of smell and taste
Persistent cough, irritated or sore throat, or hoarse voice caused by postnasal drip
Bad breath
Feeling generally unwell
Chronic sinusitis is defined as having symptoms for at least 12 weeks, while recurrent sinusitis is more than four episodes of sinusitis a year. Chronic sinusitis may also lead to a middle ear infection, causing pain and temporary deafness. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor.
Children
A cold that lasts more than a week, with fever
Thick, yellow or green mucus from the nose
Swelling around eyes
Post-nasal drip, which causes bad breath, coughing, vomiting or feeling unwell
Headache or earache
When should you see a doctor about a sinus infection?
You should visit your doctor if you have:
Recurring sinus infections
Sinusitis symptoms for more than 10 days
Fever, severe headache, pain around your sinuses, or swelling of your face or forehead
Problems with your vision when you have an infection
If your sinusitis is caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. If it’s caused by allergies, your doctor may send you to an allergist.
How to get rid of a sinus infection?
There are a number of treatments you can use for sinus relief. These include:
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief such as paracetamol
Nasal decongestant sprays - Seek pharmacist advice on usage, as repeated use for more than four to five days in a row may cause side effects, including rebound nasal congestion
Steam inhalation, with the addition of eucalyptus oil to help clear nasal passages and reduce inflammation
Comfortably hot compress held against the face
Nasal irrigation or saline wash to help clear nasal passages
Most people will recover fully from sinusitis in a week or so without antibiotics. However, in some cases, antibiotics may be necessary.
How can I prevent a sinus infection all year round?
By taking the following precautions, you can reduce your risk of getting sinusitis:
Quit smoking and avoid cigarette smoke or polluted air, which can irritate and inflame nasal passages
Manage your allergies by working to avoid triggers and keep symptoms under control
Avoid upper respiratory tract infections such as colds and flu, by washing your hands frequently with soap and water, using a hand sanitiser, and avoiding touching your face
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air as this may help loosen mucous/phlegm in your chest
Get your annual flu vaccination
Speak to your MediADVICE Pharmacist about your symptoms, so they can recommend products that may be right for you.