A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is inflammation of the sinuses that can lead to infection when blocked with fluid. Symptoms include thick nasal discharge, facial pain, headache, nasal obstruction, and persistent cold symptoms. Sinusitis can be acute, subacute, chronic, or recurrent, and diagnosis involves reviewing symptoms and various medical tests.

1. Sinus Infection

2. Definition:
A sinus infection is
inflammation or
swelling of your sinuses.
Normally, your sinuses
are filled with air. When
the sinuses become
blocked and filled with
fluid, bacteria can grow
there and cause
infection. This infection
is sinusitis.

3. Symptoms of a Sinus Infection
• Thick, yellow, foul-
smelling nasal discharge
• Pressure or pain around
the face and eyes
• Headache (generally in
the forehead area)
• Nasal obstruction
• Congestion
• Post-nasal drip
• A cold that won't go
away or gets worse
• Fever or cough

4. Different types of Sinusitis
Acute sinusitis: A sudden onset of
cold-like symptoms such as runny,
stuffy nose and facial pain that
does not go away after 10 to 14
days. Acute sinusitis typically lasts
4 weeks or less.
Subacute sinusitis: An inflammation
lasting 4 to 8 weeks.
Chronic sinusitis: A condition
characterized by sinus
inflammation symptoms lasting 8
weeks or longer.
Recurrent sinusitis: Several attacks
within a year.

5. How Sinusitis is Diagnosed
To diagnose sinusitis, your
doctor will review your
symptoms and give you a
physical examination. He or
she may also tap your teeth
to see if you have an
inflamed paranasal sinus.
Other diagnostic tests to
assess the potential causes
for sinusitis may include a
mucus culture, nasal
endoscopy (see below), X-
rays, allergy testing, CT scan
of the sinuses, or blood
work.