sinus with fever

Overview

Sinuses are air-filled spaces in your face around your nose and eyes. When they become inflamed and swollen, it is called sinusitis. A sinus infection with fever means your body is fighting an infection and your temperature may be higher than normal.

Yes. Sinusitis affects millions of people each year, and many colds lead to temporary sinus inflammation.

Anyone can get sinusitis, but it is more common in people with allergies, asthma, a weakened immune system, or structural issues in the nose.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Stuffy or blocked nose
• Pain or pressure in the face, especially around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead
• Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
• Reduced sense of smell
• Fever (temperature above 38°C/100.4°F)
• Cough, especially at night

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections (like the common cold)
• Bacterial infections (less common, often after a viral infection)
• Allergies that cause nasal inflammation
• Fungal infections (rare, in people with weakened immune systems)

Risk factors

• Recent cold or flu
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Nasal polyps or a deviated septum
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Weak immune system from diabetes, HIV, or other conditions

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• See a doctor the same day if you have a fever above 39°C (102.2°F), severe facial pain, or symptoms that last more than 10 days without improving.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Make an appointment if you have a mild fever and sinus symptoms lasting more than a week, or if you have frequent sinus infections that affect your daily life.

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine your face and nose. They may press on your cheeks and forehead. Often this is enough to diagnose sinusitis.

Tests that may be done

• Nasal endoscopy (a thin, flexible tube with a light to look inside your nose)
• Imaging such as a CT scan (if the infection is severe or keeps returning)
• Swab of nasal discharge (sometimes, if a specific cause is needed)

What to expect at your appointment

The appointment may be quick. Your doctor will likely ask about how long symptoms have lasted, whether you have any fever, and if you have any medical conditions. In most cases, you won't need tests.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and helping your body fight the infection. Most sinusitis is viral, so antibiotics only work if a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected.

Self-care at home

• Rest and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
• Use a saline nasal spray or rinse to keep your nasal passages moist
• Apply a warm, damp cloth over your face to ease pressure
• Steam from a warm shower or a bowl of hot water can help loosen congestion
• Raise your head with an extra pillow at night to help drainage

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend pain relievers or fever reducers, decongestants, or nasal corticosteroid sprays to reduce inflammation. If a bacterial infection is confirmed, a short course of antibiotics may be prescribed. Always follow your doctor's advice and finish the full course if antibiotics are given.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for sinusitis. It might be considered for chronic sinusitis that doesn't improve with medical treatment, or if there is a structural problem like nasal polyps or a deviated septum.

Living with this condition

While you recover, take it easy. Give your body time to heal. Keep a glass of water nearby and avoid straining yourself.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid smoke and strong fumes that can irritate your sinuses
• Use a humidifier in your room, especially in winter
• Wash your hands regularly to avoid spreading germs
• If you have allergies, manage them with your usual prevention plan

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet including fruits and vegetables can support your immune system. Gentle exercise, like walking, is fine if you feel well enough, but avoid intense workouts until your fever has subsided.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Feeling unwell for days can be frustrating. It's normal to feel low or anxious. Be kind to yourself and know that this will pass. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to someone you trust or a healthcare professional.

Prevention

You can lower your risk by practicing good hygiene, managing allergies, and avoiding smoking.

Vaccines

Stay up to date with recommended vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, because colds and flu can trigger sinusitis. Ask your healthcare provider about what's right for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for sinusitis. If you get frequent or severe sinus infections, your doctor may check for underlying causes.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic sinusitis (symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks)
• Spread of infection to nearby bones or tissues
• Rare but serious issues like meningitis or blood clots

Long-term outlook

The outlook is very good. Most people with sinusitis and fever improve within a couple of weeks with home care and simple treatments. Even chronic sinusitis can be managed well with the help of your healthcare team.

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