sinus infection screening test preparation

Overview

A sinus infection (sinusitis) is inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining your sinuses. The sinuses are hollow spaces in the bones of your face and head that normally produce thin mucus that drains out through your nose. When they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection.

Yes, sinus infections are very common. Millions of people get them each year, especially during cold and flu season.

Sinus infections can affect people of any age, but they are more common in adults than in young children. People with allergies, asthma, nasal polyps, a weakened immune system, or those who smoke are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Thick yellow or green mucus from your nose or dripping down your throat (postnasal drip)
• Stuffy nose that makes it hard to breathe through your nose
• Pain, pressure, or fullness in your face, especially around your eyes, cheeks, and forehead
• Headache that gets worse when you bend over or lie down
• Reduced sense of smell or taste
• Cough, especially at night
• Bad breath
• Fever
• Tiredness

Symptoms in children

• Runny nose lasting more than 10 days
• Cough during the day and at night
• Irritability or crankiness
• Swelling around the eyes
• Ear pain

Symptoms in older adults

• Less obvious symptoms, sometimes just a persistent cough or fatigue
• Confusion or change in mental state can sometimes occur with severe infection
• Sinus pain may be less noticeable

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, that cause swelling and block the sinus openings
• Bacterial infections that develop after the sinuses are blocked for a long time
• Fungal infections (rare, mainly in people with weak immune systems)
• Allergies that cause ongoing inflammation in the nose and sinuses

Risk factors

• Having a common cold or other upper respiratory infection
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) that isn't well controlled
• Nasal polyps or a deviated septum (a bend in the wall inside the nose)
• A weak immune system from conditions like diabetes or medications that suppress immunity
• Smoking or being around second-hand smoke
• Swimming or diving in contaminated water
• Recent dental infection or procedure

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without getting better
• Symptoms that get worse after 5 to 7 days
• Double or worsening fever
• Severe headache or facial pain not relieved by over-the-counter treatments

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have had several sinus infections in the past year
• You have chronic sinusitis symptoms that last more than 12 weeks
• You want to discuss whether a screening test or imaging would be helpful

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms and look inside your nose with a small lighted tool called an otoscope or endoscope. They may also press gently on your face to check for tenderness. If symptoms are severe or keep coming back, the doctor may recommend a screening test.

Tests that may be done

• Nasal endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is gently inserted into your nose to see the sinus openings and look for blockages or infection.
• CT scan of the sinuses: A series of X-ray images taken of your sinuses to get detailed pictures. This is often used for chronic or complicated sinusitis.
• Nasal swab or culture: A cotton swab is used to collect a sample of mucus from your nose to check for bacteria or fungi.
• Allergy testing: Skin or blood tests to see if allergies are causing inflammation in your sinuses.

What to expect at your appointment

For a nasal endoscopy, you may have a numbing spray in your nose. The procedure is quick and usually not painful, just a little uncomfortable. For a CT scan, you lie on a table while the machine takes pictures; there's no preparation needed. If a culture is taken, you'll feel a brief tickle in your nose. Your doctor will tell you if you need to stop taking any medications before the test—for example, some decongestant sprays may need to be paused. Always follow the specific instructions your healthcare provider gives you.

Treatment

Treatment for a sinus infection depends on whether it is caused by a virus or bacteria, and how long it has lasted. Most viral sinus infections get better without antibiotics. Home care and self-help measures are the first steps. If bacteria are the cause, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. Chronic sinusitis may need longer management, including nasal sprays, sinus rinses, or sometimes surgery.

Self-care at home

• Rest and drink plenty of fluids to help thin the mucus.
• Use a saltwater nasal spray or rinse (saline irrigation) to flush out your sinuses. You can buy a squeeze bottle or neti pot at a pharmacy and use cooled boiled or distilled water.
• Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or a warm shower to moisten the sinuses.
• Place a warm, damp cloth over your face to ease pain.
• Prop up your head with an extra pillow at night to help drainage.
• Avoid flying or scuba diving when you are congested because pressure changes can make symptoms worse.

Medical treatments

If home care isn't enough, your doctor may recommend a nasal spray containing a corticosteroid to reduce swelling. They may also suggest decongestant sprays or tablets for a short time (no more than 3 days for sprays) to help open the nasal passages. For bacterial sinusitis, antibiotics are prescribed for a 5- to 10-day course. Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help with facial pain and headache—ask your pharmacist which is right for you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed. It may be considered if you have chronic sinusitis that does not respond to medicine, or if there is a structural problem like nasal polyps or a deviated septum that blocks the sinuses. The operation, called functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), opens up the sinus passages. Discuss with your doctor if this might be an option for you.

Living with this condition

Living with sinus infections can be frustrating, but most people manage well. During a flare-up, rest and use the self-care tips above. When you feel well, stay active and keep your immune system strong with good nutrition and sleep. If you have chronic sinusitis, you may need to use a daily saline rinse or nasal spray as your doctor advises.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid cigarette smoke and other irritants like strong perfumes or cleaning fumes.
• Use a humidifier in your bedroom to keep the air moist.
• Manage allergies with the help of an allergist if needed.
• Wash your hands often to reduce the risk of catching a new cold.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables supports your immune system. Staying well hydrated helps thin mucus. Gentle exercise like walking can improve circulation and sinus drainage, but avoid intense activity when you are feeling very congested or unwell.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Having a sinus infection that doesn't go away can be tiring and upsetting. The constant congestion, pain, and disrupted sleep can affect your mood and energy. It's normal to feel frustrated or down. Talk to your doctor about how you're feeling—they can help you manage symptoms better. If you feel very anxious or depressed, let your healthcare provider know so they can support you.

Prevention

You can't prevent every sinus infection, but you can reduce your risk. Wash your hands often, avoid people who are sick, and manage allergies properly. Quitting smoking and staying away from second-hand smoke also helps. Using a saline rinse after exposure to dust or pollen may flush out irritants.

Vaccines

Getting the annual flu vaccine and staying up to date on other recommended vaccines, like the COVID-19 vaccine, can help prevent respiratory infections that often trigger sinusitis. There is no vaccine specifically for sinus infections.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for sinus infections in people without symptoms. If you have frequent or severe sinus infections, your doctor may recommend tests (like CT scans or allergy testing) to look for underlying causes. Always discuss with your healthcare provider if you think you might benefit from a screening.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic sinusitis that lasts for months or years
• Acute bacterial sinusitis that spreads to the bones of the face (osteomyelitis)
• Infection spreading to the eye socket, causing swelling, redness, and vision problems
• Meningitis (infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord) – this is very rare but serious
• Blood clots or abscess in the brain (also very rare)

Long-term outlook

The outlook for sinus infections is generally very good. Most people recover completely with home care. Even chronic sinusitis can be managed successfully with the right treatment. Complications are rare, especially if you see a doctor when symptoms are severe or long-lasting. With proper care, you can expect to feel better and return to your normal activities.

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