Sinusitis, a common condition affecting many individuals, often presents symptoms similar to those of a cold, including fatigue, cough, impaired sense of smell, fullness or pressure in the ears, or headache. During the infection-fighting process, the use of nasal rinses, decongestants, and pain relievers can help alleviate these symptoms. Sinusitis occurs when bacteria grow uncontrollably, leading to infection and an immune system-triggered inflammatory response. This results in swelling, causing headache and facial pain, mucus buildup leading to congestion, and an influx of white blood cells that thicken the mucus, possibly giving it a yellow or green tint.
Acute sinusitis typically refers to a viral infection lasting 7 to 10 days, while a bacterial infection can extend up to 4 weeks. Chronic sinusitis, characterized by symptoms persisting for 12 weeks or more, can last months or even years. Several factors, such as common colds, viral infections, or a compromised immune system, can exacerbate chronic sinusitis.
The primary symptom of a sinus infection is painful pressure. Depending on the affected sinus, this pain can manifest in the forehead (frontal sinusitis), over the cheek or in the upper jaw and teeth (maxillary sinusitis), behind the eyes (ethmoid or sphenoid sinusitis), or at the top of the head (sphenoid sinusitis).
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, chronic rhinosinusitis affects about 11% of U.S. adults. Treatment often spans years and typically involves antibiotics. Repeated 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 associated with a sinus infection often accompanies more significant symptoms like facial pain or pressure. In contrast, COVID-19 symptoms tend to include more fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, and may have gastrointestinal symptoms as well. Because these symptoms can overlap, it is recommended to discuss your condition with a healthcare provider.
Weather changes can also trigger sinus infections, especially in individuals with allergies. Swelling of the sinus lining due to an allergy flare-up can impede sinus drainage, increasing the risk of infection due to mucus buildup. The main symptoms of a sinus infection in this context are nasal blockage or congestion and facial pain.
Chronic sinusitis, rhinitis, or rhinosinusitis symptoms include pain, soreness, or pressure in the face, often behind the cheeks and forehead. These symptoms can exacerbate asthma, indicating potential lung swelling and inflammation. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms.
For more detailed information, you can visit the following sources:
Harvard Health,
What to do about sinusitis,
USF Health News,
Sinusitis,
Chronic sinus inflammation,
Sinus infection or COVID-19,
BCM,
University First.
