Sinusitis, often confused with common colds or even COVID-19, presents a unique set of symptoms and challenges. To effectively manage sinusitis, understanding its symptoms and treatment options is crucial.

Sinus infection symptoms are marked by painful pressure, typically localized depending on which sinus is involved. For frontal sinusitis, the pain manifests in the forehead, maxillary sinusitis leads to pain over the cheek or in the upper jaw and teeth, ethmoid or sphenoid sinusitis causes pain behind the eyes, and sphenoid sinusitis results in discomfort at the top of the head.

Initially, sinusitis symptoms mimic those of a cold, including fatigue, cough, impaired sense of smell, ear fullness or pressure, and headache. As the body combats the infection, employing nasal rinses, decongestants, and pain relievers can alleviate these symptoms.

The condition stems from out-of-control bacterial growth, triggering an immune response. This leads to headache and facial pain due to swelling, congestion from mucus buildup, and possibly yellow or green-tinted mucus due to the influx of white blood cells.

Distinguishing sinus infection from COVID-19 can be tricky. Sinus infections typically cause significant facial pain/pressure, whereas COVID-19 symptoms are more likely to include fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, and even gastrointestinal issues. Given the symptom overlap, consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for an accurate diagnosis.

Other symptoms of sinusitis include bad breath, fever, lethargy, loss of smell or taste, and ear pressure. Unlike colds, which resolve in 7 to 10 days, sinus infections can follow a different trajectory. Acute sinusitis, often viral, lasts about 7 to 10 days. Bacterial infections might persist for up to 4 weeks, while chronic sinusitis, characterized by long-term inflammation, can last 12 weeks or more, aggravated by factors like colds, viral infections, or a compromised immune system.

Chronic sinusitis involves prolonged inflammation of the sinuses, located behind the bones of the upper face. Obstruction in the sinuses’ drainage can lead to mucus buildup, exacerbating the condition.

For more detailed information on sinusitis, visit Harvard Health, Harvard Health, Harvard Health, Ohio State Health & Discovery, Keck Medicine of USC, USF Health News, and Harvard Health.

Effective management of sinusitis involves recognizing the symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment, while also distinguishing it from other similar conditions like colds or COVID-19.