09/07/2026
Bacterial Sinusitis: Signs & Management
🟣 What is bacterial sinusitis?
Bacterial sinusitis is an infection of the air-filled spaces (sinuses) around your nose and face. It happens when the sinuses become blocked, trapping mucus and allowing bacteria to grow.
Most sinus infections begin as a **viral cold** and usually get better on their own. Antibiotics are **not needed** for most cases. A bacterial infection is more likely if:
* Symptoms last **more than 10 days** without improving.
* Symptoms are **severe**, such as a high fever with thick nasal discharge and facial pain.
* You start to feel better after a cold, then suddenly get worse again ("double worsening").
🟣 Common signs and symptoms
* Facial pain or pressure, especially around the cheeks, forehead, or eyes.
* Thick nasal mucus that may be yellow, green, cloudy, or have a bad smell.
* A blocked or stuffy nose, making it difficult to breathe.
* Reduced or lost sense of smell.
* Pain in the upper teeth or cheeks, especially with a maxillary sinus infection.
* Fever, which may occur with a bacterial infection.
* Symptoms that worsen after a cold seemed to be getting better.
🟣 How to manage bacterial sinusitis
* Use a **saline nasal spray or saline rinse** to help clear mucus.
* Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
* Get enough rest to help your body recover.
* A cool-mist humidifier may help relieve nasal congestion. If using steam, be careful to avoid burns.
* Take pain relievers or fever-reducing medicine as directed by your healthcare provider or according to the label.
* Only take **antibiotics if they are prescribed by a doctor**. Antibiotics do not work against viral infections.
# # 🟣 When to see a doctor
See a healthcare provider if:
* Symptoms last longer than **10 days**.
* Symptoms are severe or getting worse.
* You have repeated sinus infections.
* You are unsure whether you need medical treatment.
🟣 Seek urgent medical care immediately if you have
* Swelling or redness around the eye.
* Vision changes, double vision, or severe eye pain.
* A severe headache, confusion, stiff neck, drowsiness, or repeated vomiting.
* A high fever that does not improve.
* Severe or rapidly worsening facial swelling.
