What does facial swelling feel like with sinusitis?

Inflamed sinus lining can create pressure behind or around the cheeks, nose, eyes, or forehead. The face may feel heavy, congested, or sore, and discomfort can increase when bending forward. A blocked or runny nose, reduced sense of smell, thick mucus, cough, headache, or upper-tooth ache may occur as well. Visible facial swelling is less typical than a sensation of pressure, so new or marked swelling deserves clinical assessment.

Rest, drink fluids, and use a warm compress over the face if it feels soothing. Saline nasal rinsing may help clear mucus when performed with safe, clean water and the correct equipment. A pharmacist can advise on pain relief or a nasal treatment that suits you. Avoid inserting objects into the nose, and arrange review if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening.

Seek urgent help for swelling around an eye, vision changes, severe headache, confusion, a stiff neck, repeated vomiting, or marked drowsiness. Get prompt medical advice for high fever, severe one-sided facial pain, or swelling that is rapidly increasing. These features can indicate a complication or another cause requiring examination.

Ask whether your symptoms fit sinusitis or another facial condition, whether you need an examination of the eyes and nose, and which treatments are appropriate. Ask how long to continue self-care and which changes should trigger a faster review.