Sinusitis, commonly known as a sinus infection, is a condition that affects many people, causing discomfort and a range of symptoms. The initial symptoms of sinusitis are often similar to those of a cold, including fatigue, cough, impaired sense of smell, fullness or pressure in the ears, or headache. As the body fights the infection, methods such as nasal rinses, decongestants, and pain relievers can be used to ease symptoms.

Painful pressure is a primary symptom of a sinus infection. The location of the pain depends on which sinus is affected: the forehead for frontal sinusitis, over the cheek or in the upper jaw and teeth for maxillary sinusitis, behind the eyes for ethmoid or sphenoid sinusitis, or at the top of the head for sphenoid sinusitis.

Sinus infections can be acute, lasting 7 to 10 days if viral, or up to 4 weeks if bacterial. Chronic sinusitis persists for 12 weeks or more, with inflammation potentially lasting months or years. Factors that contribute to chronic sinusitis include common colds, viral infections, a compromised immune system, and more. The infection leads to an immune response, causing symptoms like headache, facial pain, congestion, and in some cases, mucus that is yellow or green.

Approximately 11% of U.S. adults suffer from chronic rhinosinusitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treatment often spans years, typically involving antibiotics. Repeated cycles of inflammation and repair can thicken sinus tissues, similar to calloused skin. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to resolve the issue.

Loss of sense of smell during a sinus infection is usually accompanied by more significant symptoms such as facial pain or pressure. It’s important to differentiate these symptoms from those of COVID-19, which may include fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Due to symptom overlap, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended for an accurate diagnosis.

Sinus infections occur when viruses or bacteria infect the sinuses, causing the lining to become swollen and trapping mucus and debris. This prevents drainage into the nasal cavity. The sinuses are hollow spaces in the facial bones, connected to the nasal cavity through small channels.

Chronic sinusitis, rhinitis, or rhinosinusitis can exacerbate asthma symptoms and may indicate lung swelling and inflammation. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you experience pain, soreness, or pressure in the face, especially behind the cheeks and forehead.

For more detailed information, visit the following links:
Harvard Health,
Sinusitis – Harvard Health,
USF Health News,
What to do about sinusitis – Harvard Health,
Chronic sinus inflammation and brain activity,
Sinus Infection or COVID-19? – Ohio State Health,
Sinus Infections and Weather Changes | BCM,
Nose and Sinus Problems with Asthma – University of Rochester Medical Center.