How common is cough in sinusitis?

Sinus inflammation can increase mucus and make it harder for the sinuses to drain normally. Mucus sliding down the back of the throat can irritate the throat and trigger repeated throat-clearing or a cough. The cough may be worse when lying down or after waking. A blocked nose, facial pressure, reduced sense of smell, sore throat or thick nasal discharge may occur alongside it. Cough alone has many possible causes, so it does not identify sinusitis by itself.

Drink fluids regularly, rest, and avoid cigarette smoke or other airway irritants. Saline nasal rinsing may help clear mucus when performed with sterile or previously boiled and cooled water and clean equipment. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether a nasal treatment is suitable, particularly if symptoms persist or you have other medical conditions. Take medicines only as directed on the label or by your clinician.

Arrange medical advice if the cough is worsening, lasts beyond the expected illness, repeatedly returns, or interferes with sleep or breathing. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, blue lips, confusion, or coughing up blood. Fever with marked facial swelling, severe headache, eye swelling, or changes in vision also needs prompt assessment.

Could mucus drainage explain my cough, and are my sinus symptoms consistent with sinusitis? Which nasal or cough treatments are appropriate for me? What changes should prompt a review?