Sinus infections can be bothersome but are not considered to be serious in most cases. Dr. Alan Greene, MD, points out that sinus infections in toddlers are common. The infection is often caused by the common cold, bacteria, allergies or fungal infections, states the Mayo Clinic. Home treatment to manage the symptoms in toddlers is usually adequate. A persistent infection that lasts more than eight weeks or continually appears is referred to as chronic sinusitis. Symptoms of sinus infections in toddlers may resemble the common cold but are more persistent.
Head Pain
A sinus infection can be painful due to the congestion, swelling and pressure caused by inflammation in the sinuses and nasal passages. Pain in the head and facial area is not as common in toddlers as it is in adults, states Dr. Greene. Sinus infection symptoms can lead to the face and head being painful or tender around the eyes, cheeks, nose and forehead, states the Mayo Clinic. The upper jaw and teeth may ache from the pressure in the sinus cavities behind them. Pressure impacts the ears making them tender or painful. A toddler may rub his ears or put his head down often if he is experiencing these symptoms.
Drainage and Coughing
The common cold can last seven days. The early part of this infection can cause thick and yellow or green nasal secretions, states Dr. Greene. If these secretions last longer than three days, it may be a sign that the cold has turned into a sinus infection. Dr. Greene suggests that when the mucus and cough do not improve after 10 to 14 days a trip to the doctor is necessary. Toddlers may have clear nasal dripping and a cough that worsens during naps or bedtime.
Other Symptoms
Your toddler may be fussy, tired, feverish or uninterested in normal activities while suffering from a sinus infection. The fever should respond well to fever reducers if your pediatrician approves of their use. The nasal dripping can lead to bad breath. An ear infection may also develop when fluids gather in the tubes of the ears. Sleeping due to the congestion, drainage and discomfort can be hard for a toddler. Eating, playing or drinking may not interest your child during this infection.
