A sinus infection is usually brought on by a cold or flu virus. It can also be triggered by allergies or bacterial infections. Mild cases can be taken care of with home remedies or over-the-counter medications. More severe cases can become chronic and should be treated by a physician so that they don't lead to more serious upper respiratory issues. As for bronchitis and pneumonia, these are serious conditions that should be treated by a physician.
Pain
Pain can be caused from the pressure of inflamed and swollen tissues in the nasal cavities and passages. This can lead to headaches and dull throbbing pain around the eyes, forehead, upper jaw and back towards the ears. Soreness and irritation in the throat can also occur. When pressure is present from blocked passages, earaches may be possible.
Difficulty Breathing
Being able to breathe through the nose will be inhibited when inflammation or blockages reduce the airflow through the sinuses. Coughing and wheezing can result from chest congestion caused by the excessive amounts of drainage. If shortness of breath occurs, consult a physician to rule out bronchitis or pneumonia.
Drainage
Thick, yellow and green mucus will build up as nasal passages become inflamed and swollen. Drainage will occur when the swelling subsides. Excessive amounts of mucus can lead to chest congestion or nausea if the drainage enters the stomach.
Miscellaneous Symptoms
Bad breath or loss of sense of smell or taste can be signs of sinusitis. Loss of hearing can occur as well. If hearing does not return to normal within a few days, consult a physician to determine if the eardrum or ear canal has been damaged. Fatigue and irritability from not being able to sleep are also possible symptoms of sinusitis.
Severe Symptoms
Fevers of 100 degrees F or more that last longer than 48 hours should be reported to your physician. Confusion, double vision and stiffness in the neck can be symptoms of other, more serious illnesses, including meningitis, and should be looked into by a physician.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Sinusitis
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing; Phyllis Balch; 2006
- Medline Plus: Sinusitis
