When to worry about facial pain and pressure with sinusitis

Inflammation and swelling inside the sinuses can obstruct drainage and create pressure in the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper teeth. Blocked breathing, reduced smell, cough, or nasal discharge may occur too. Facial pain can also arise from migraine, dental disease, or an eye problem, so a new or unusual pattern needs assessment.

Rest, drink fluids, and use recommended treatment. A warm compress may feel soothing. If you use saline rinsing, follow instructions and use safe, clean water with equipment cleaned and dried properly. Do not use someone else’s medicine. Note pain, fever, nasal symptoms, and how they change.

Arrange review if symptoms are not improving, repeatedly return, remain strongly one-sided, or include persistent blockage or nosebleeds. Seek urgent care for eye swelling, vision changes, severe unusual headache, confusion, neck stiffness, weakness, or a rapidly worsening illness with high fever. Severe upper-tooth pain may need dental assessment.

Ask whether symptoms fit sinusitis or another cause, whether your nose, eyes, or teeth need examination, and which treatments are suitable. Ask when to return and which warning signs require urgent care.