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.
Sinusitis, also known as a sinus infection, can cause symptoms such as facial pain, congestion, and headache. Learn about the causes, duration, and treatment options for sinusitis in this ...
Acute sinusitis is most often caused by the common cold. Signs and symptoms may include a blocked and stuffy (congested) nose, which may block your sinuses and prevent drainage of mucus.
Sinusitis is classified into acute sinusitis, subacute sinusitis, and chronic sinusitis. In acute sinusitis, symptoms last for less than four weeks, and in subacute sinusitis, they last between 4 and 12 weeks.
Sinusitis is usually caused by a virus and often lasts even after other upper respiratory symptoms are gone. In some cases, bacteria — or, rarely, fungi — may cause a sinus infection.
Key points Stuffy nose that just isn't getting better? You might have a sinus infection, also called sinusitis. You don't need antibiotics for many sinus infections, but your healthcare provider can decide if you need an antibiotic.
These are the most common symptoms of sinusitis: Runny nose that lasts longer than 7 to 10 days. The discharge is often thick green or yellow, but can also be clear. The symptoms of sinusitis may look like other conditions or health problems. Always talk to your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How is sinusitis diagnosed?
Sinusitis occurs when blocked sinuses cannot drain and the backed-up mucus gets infected. The simplest and often most effective treatment is daily nasal irrigation. It can also help to drink a lot of water, inhale steam, and sleep with the head elevated.