Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)

A sinus infection happens when the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed, often after a cold or viral illness. This can cause facial pressure, congestion, a blocked or runny nose and discomfort around the eyes or cheeks. Most sinus infections are viral and settle on their own within a few days, although symptoms can sometimes last longer.

These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.

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What a Sinus Infection Is

Sinusitis refers to inflammation of the small air-filled spaces behind the nose and forehead. When these spaces swell or fill with mucus, they can cause:

facial pressure or heaviness
a blocked nose
reduced sense of smell
nasal discharge
headache or discomfort when bending forward

Symptoms often follow a cold or flu-like illness, and most cases improve without treatment.

Some bacterial and viral organisms can be associated with sinus symptoms. The table below lists a few examples sometimes mentioned in clinical contexts. Symptoms alone cannot confirm the cause and results always need GP assessment.

Type	Organism	Notes
Bacterial	Streptococcus pneumoniae	Can be associated with some cases of bacterial sinus inflammation after a cold.
Bacterial	Haemophilus influenzae	Sometimes found in people with persistent sinus or nasal symptoms.
Bacterial	Moraxella catarrhalis	Occasionally detected in sinus or ear-related symptoms.
Viral	Rhinovirus, seasonal coronaviruses	Common viral triggers of blocked and congested sinuses after a cold.
Viral	Influenza, RSV	Can contribute to more generalised respiratory symptoms with sinus pressure.

Common Symptoms of a Sinus Infection

You may experience:

Facial pressure, pain or heaviness
Blocked or congested nose
Thick nasal mucus
Reduced or altered sense of smell
Headache, especially around the cheeks or forehead
Toothache or pain in the upper jaw
Ear pressure
Tiredness or low energy

Symptoms usually improve gradually over 7 to 14 days, although some may last longer.

Common Reasons to Have a Sinus Infection Reviewed by a GP

Speak to a GP if you have:

Persistent or worsening symptoms lasting more than a week
Significant facial pressure or discomfort
Recurrent sinus infections
Thick mucus that is not improving
Symptoms that are affecting sleep or work
Ongoing congestion after a viral illness
A reduced sense of smell that is not returning

A GP can review symptoms, examine your nose and sinuses (if seen in person), and advise on next steps.

Severe Symptoms – Seek Urgent Help

Seek urgent medical care if you develop:

Severe facial pain or swelling
High fever or feeling very unwell
Vision changes (blurred or double vision)
Eye swelling or redness around the eyelids
Severe headache not relieved by usual pain relief
Stiff neck, confusion or drowsiness
Symptoms that are rapidly getting worse

These features may indicate a more serious condition that needs immediate assessment.

Understanding Typical Symptom Patterns

Symptoms suggesting simple sinus inflammation (common)

facial pressure
blocked nose
thick or coloured mucus
discomfort after a cold
These symptoms usually improve gradually with time.

Symptoms that may need a GP review

symptoms lasting more than 10 days
worsening pain after initial improvement
repeated sinus symptoms throughout the year
reduced sense of smell lasting several weeks
A GP can guide you on treatment, repeat assessment or further tests if needed.

Symptoms that almost always improve with time

Most sinus infections are viral. Antibiotics are not usually required unless symptoms strongly suggest bacterial infection, which a GP will assess based on symptom duration and severity.

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How GPs Assess Sinus Symptoms

GPs consider:

symptom duration
severity of facial pressure
pattern of congestion
fever, if present
any red flag features
medical history
response to previous treatments

Blood tests or imaging are rarely needed for routine sinus infections.

Managing infections at AccessGP knowledge base

How Sinusitis Is Managed

Management focuses on reducing inflammation and improving drainage of the sinuses. This may include nasal sprays, steam inhalation, saline rinses and reviewing contributing factors such as allergies.

A GP can advise on suitable treatment options based on your symptoms.