What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

Inflamed sinus lining can narrow the drainage passages behind the cheeks, forehead and nose. This may create pressure that feels worse when bending forward, along with congestion and a reduced sense of smell. Mucus draining down the throat can trigger a cough or sore throat.

Pressure around the face may be accompanied by a headache, tooth discomfort or an earache because nearby areas share connected spaces. Sinusitis can follow a cold or allergies, and symptoms can overlap with other causes of a blocked nose.

Rest, drink fluids and avoid smoke or other irritants. Saline nasal rinses may help clear mucus when used with safe water and clean equipment. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether a nasal treatment is suitable for you.

Do not insert objects into the nose, and avoid using a decongestant spray for longer than its instructions allow. Note whether pain, discharge, smell or congestion is improving, stable or worsening so a clinician can make a more useful assessment.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are severe, keep worsening, return repeatedly or interfere with sleep and daily activities. Seek urgent help for swelling around an eye, vision changes, severe headache with neck stiffness, confusion, facial weakness or a rapidly worsening illness.

Ask whether the pattern fits sinusitis or another nasal condition, whether an allergy may be contributing, and which treatments are appropriate. Mention an ongoing nosebleed, earache, reduced smell or symptoms that have not started to settle.