sinus infection day of procedure tips

Overview

A sinus infection happens when the spaces inside your nose and head (called sinuses) become swollen and inflamed. This can cause mucus to build up and make it hard to breathe through your nose. A sinus infection is also called sinusitis. It often follows a cold, but it can also be caused by allergies or other health issues.

Yes. Sinus infections are one of the most common health problems seen in clinics and doctors' offices. Many people have at least one episode every few years.

Sinus infections can happen to anyone, at any age. They are slightly more common in adults, but children get them too. People with allergies, asthma, or frequent colds may have sinus infections more often.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Stuffy or runny nose
• Thick yellow or green nasal mucus
• Pain, pressure, or tenderness around the eyes, cheeks, forehead, or nose
• Headache
• Postnasal drip (mucus running down the back of your throat)
• Sore throat or cough
• Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• Reduced sense of smell or taste
• Ear pain or a feeling of pressure in the ears
• Tiredness or feeling unwell

Symptoms in children

• Crankiness or fussiness
• Cough that may get worse at night
• Trouble sleeping
• Pulling or rubbing the ear
• Nasal congestion with thick discharge
• Low-grade fever
• Swelling around the eyes

Symptoms in older adults

• Less obvious symptoms than younger adults
• A long-lasting cough or congestion
• Confusion or drowsiness (in serious cases)
• Dizziness or balance problems
• A general feeling of being unwell without localized pain
• Fever may be absent or low-grade

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections, especially after a cold
• Bacterial infections that can develop when sinuses stay blocked
• Allergies that cause nasal swelling and mucus buildup
• A deviated septum or other structural issues in the nose
• Nasal polyps (noncancerous growths in the lining of the nose)
• Dental infections that spread to the sinuses
• Fungal infections (rare, but more common in people with weakened immune systems)

Risk factors

• Recent upper respiratory infection or cold
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or asthma
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Weak immune system from conditions like diabetes or HIV
• Using decongestant sprays too often (for more than 3 days)
• Flying or going to high altitudes when congested
• Swimming in contaminated water

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Symptoms that last more than 10 days without improvement
• A second infection within a short time
• Severe pain or headache that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medicine
• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C) that lasts for more than a few days
• Unusual swelling, redness, or vision changes (these may need emergency care)

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have nasal congestion and facial pain that bother you for more than a week
• You have had several sinus infections in the past year
• You have allergies and are not sure how to manage them
• You are thinking about a nasal wash or saline rinse and want to know if it is safe for you

Diagnosis

A doctor will usually ask about your symptoms, look inside your nose with a light, and gently press on your cheeks and forehead to check for tenderness. This is often enough to tell if you have sinusitis. In some cases, they may also use a small camera (nasal endoscopy) to get a closer look.

Tests that may be done

• Nasal endoscopy (a thin, flexible tube with a camera)
• CT scan of the sinuses if symptoms are severe or long-lasting
• A swab of nasal discharge to test for bacteria
• Allergy testing if allergies seem to be the cause
• A blood test to check for signs of infection

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain what they are doing, and the tests are usually quick and painless. A nasal endoscopy can feel a little uncomfortable but not painful. You will usually get advice on home care and follow-up steps on the same day. If a bacterial infection is confirmed, the doctor may discuss treatment options with you.

Treatment

Treatment for sinus infections depends on the cause and how serious the symptoms are. Most cases are caused by viruses, so they do not need antibiotics. Home care is the first step and helps ease symptoms while your body heals. If your doctor finds a bacterial infection or if you have chronic sinusitis, they may recommend medical treatments or, in rare cases, a procedure.

Self-care at home

• Rest and give your body time to recover
• Drink plenty of fluids like water, herbal tea, or warm broth
• Use a saline nasal spray or rinse to help wash out mucus
• Place a warm, damp cloth over your cheeks and forehead for comfort
• Breathe in steam from a warm shower or a bowl of hot water (carefully)
• Use a humidifier to keep the air in your home from drying out
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Sleep with an extra pillow to keep your head raised and help drain your sinuses

Medical treatments

If your healthcare provider determines that a bacterial infection is present, they may prescribe antibiotics. They might also recommend a nasal corticosteroid spray (a medicine that reduces swelling) or suggest over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for discomfort. It is important to follow your provider's instructions exactly and never share antibiotics. Always ask your pharmacist or doctor before taking any new medicine.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely the first option. It may be considered if you have chronic sinusitis that does not improve with medicine, or if you have growths like nasal polyps. A procedure called sinus surgery can open blocked sinuses and improve drainage. Your doctor will explain the details and what to expect if surgery is ever recommended.

Living with this condition

On the day of your sinus procedure, you may need to follow special instructions. Arrive on time and bring a friend or family member if possible. Do not eat or drink anything for several hours before the procedure if you are having anesthesia, unless your care team says otherwise. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave jewelry at home. Ask about any medicines you should stop or take on that day. After the procedure, have a plan for someone to take you home. You will likely need to avoid blowing your nose and heavy lifting for a few days. Your healthcare team will give you clear steps for recovery.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep your nasal passages moist with a saline spray or a humidifier, especially at night
• Try to avoid allergens that trigger your sinus problems, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander
• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke, as smoke worsens inflammation
• Practice good hand hygiene to reduce the chances of catching viruses
• Manage allergies with the help of your healthcare provider

Diet and exercise

Eating a healthy, balanced diet helps support your immune system. Drinking warm fluids can be very soothing. Gentle exercise like walking is fine when you feel up to it, but you should avoid intense workouts while your sinuses are inflamed and during the first few days after a procedure. Always check with your healthcare provider about when it is safe to return to your normal exercise routine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Long-lasting sinus problems can be tiring and frustrating. It is normal to feel low or anxious when you are dealing with pain and congestion. Feeling unwell can also disrupt your sleep, which affects your mood. Be gentle with yourself, and talk with your healthcare team about anything that worries you. They can offer advice and support to help you cope.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent a sinus infection, but you can reduce your chances. Washing your hands often, staying away from people who are sick, and managing allergies can help. Keeping your nasal passages moist, especially in dry climates or during winter, also makes it harder for infections to take hold. If you smoke, quitting can lower your risk.

Vaccines

Getting recommended vaccines, such as the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccines, can protect you from infections that often lead to sinusitis. The pneumococcal vaccine may also be recommended for some adults. Ask your doctor what vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for sinus infections in healthy people. If you have recurring or very severe sinus problems, your doctor may suggest allergy testing or a CT scan to look for underlying issues.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic sinusitis, where symptoms last for months
• Thickening or blockage of the sinuses that may need surgery
• Spread of infection to the bones of the face (osteomyelitis)
• Infection near the eye, which can lead to eye swelling or vision loss
• Meningitis, a serious infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord
• Blood clots or infection in the veins near the brain (very rare)

Long-term outlook

With the right care, the vast majority of sinus infections clear up completely without any long-term problems. Even chronic or recurring sinusitis can be managed well with the help of an experienced healthcare team. If you follow your doctor's advice and take care of yourself, you can expect to feel better and get back to your normal life.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.