Does sinusitis cause facial swelling?

Inflammation in a sinus can cause tenderness or puffiness over the cheek, forehead, or around the eye. Swelling may be more concerning when it is one-sided, rapidly increasing, red, or very painful. Dental infection, skin infection, allergy, and other conditions can also produce facial swelling. Sinus symptoms do not confirm the cause, and swelling near the eye should not be ignored because the eye and surrounding tissues are close to the sinuses.

Arrange a clinical assessment for new or persistent facial swelling, particularly if it is tender or associated with blocked nose, discharge, or facial pain. While waiting, rest, drink fluids, and use a cool compress if it feels soothing. Do not squeeze the swollen area or start leftover antibiotics. A clinician can examine the nose, face, teeth, and eyes and decide whether treatment is needed.

Seek urgent medical help for swelling around the eye, vision changes, pain when moving the eye, difficulty opening the eye, severe headache, confusion, neck stiffness, or difficulty breathing. Prompt assessment is also needed for rapidly spreading redness, high fever, or severe facial pain. These features can signal infection or inflammation requiring timely treatment.

Where is the swelling coming from? Do I need my teeth or eye area checked? What symptoms should make me return urgently, and which treatments are suitable for me?