When to worry about facial swelling with sinusitis

Sinusitis causes inflammation and trapped mucus in the spaces around the nose, cheeks, forehead, and eyes. Pressure can create tenderness or a puffy appearance, especially during an acute flare. Swelling around the eye is more concerning because infection can extend into tissues surrounding the eye. Facial swelling that is one-sided, rapidly changing, or paired with marked illness needs a clinician's examination rather than a simple assumption that it is sinus pressure.

Contact a clinician promptly if facial swelling is new or worsening with sinus symptoms. Rest, drink fluids if you can, and use only medicines that are suitable for you and recommended by a pharmacist or clinician. Do not press on a swollen area or place anything into the eye. Note the location of pain, temperature, nasal discharge, and any change in vision before assessment.

Seek emergency care for reduced or double vision, pain when moving the eye, inability to open the eye, a bulging eye, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, repeated vomiting, unusual sleepiness, or difficulty breathing. Get same-day assessment for high fever, rapidly increasing swelling, severe one-sided facial pain, or swelling that spreads toward the eye. These symptoms can require treatment beyond routine self-care.

Ask whether the swelling is consistent with sinus inflammation or needs evaluation for another cause, and whether you need prescription treatment. Mention how long symptoms have lasted, whether they improved and then worsened, any eye symptoms, dental pain, immune problems, and medicines you have already tried.