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Sinusitis: Facial Pain, Blocked Nose and When Antibiotics Help
Facial pain, a blocked nose and thick mucus after a cold? Learn how sinusitis is treated at home, why antibiotics are rarely needed, and when to see a GP.
Quick answer
Sinusitis is swelling of the sinuses, usually after a cold, causing facial pain or pressure, a blocked nose, thick mucus and a reduced sense of smell. Most cases are viral and clear within two to three weeks with rest, fluids, painkillers and saline rinses. See a GP if symptoms last more than 10 days without improving, keep coming back, or get worse after first improving.
In this article
The sinuses are small air spaces behind the cheeks and forehead. When they become inflamed, mucus builds up and causes pressure and pain.
Symptoms
- Pain, pressure or tenderness around the eyes, cheeks or forehead
- Blocked or runny nose
- Thick yellow or green mucus
- Reduced sense of smell
- Toothache in the upper jaw
- Bad breath, cough or mild fever
Home care
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
- Take simple painkillers as directed.
- Rinse your nose with a saline solution.
- Breathe in steam (taking care with hot water, and never with children nearby).
- Avoid smoke.
Decongestant sprays can help for a few days but should not be used for more than about a week.
Why antibiotics are rarely needed
Most sinusitis follows a viral cold and gets better without antibiotics. A doctor may consider antibiotics if symptoms are severe, last more than 10 days without improvement, or get worse after initially improving.
When to see a GP
- Symptoms not improving after 10 days
- Severe pain
- Frequent sinusitis
- Symptoms on one side only, or with blood-stained mucus
Seek urgent care for
- Swelling or redness around the eye
- Changes in vision or double vision
- Severe headache, stiff neck or confusion
- High fever
Frequently asked questions
Can upper tooth pain come from the sinuses?
Yes. The roots of upper back teeth are close to the sinuses. If tooth pain continues, see a dentist to rule out a dental cause. Read about toothache at night.
Is sinusitis linked to allergies?
Allergic rhinitis can make sinusitis more likely. See our guide to dust allergy in the UAE.
