Sinusitis: When to Call the Doctor

Sinusitis is an inflammation or infection of the lining of one or more of the air-filled cavities (sinuses) located in the head around the nose.

Causes

Sinuses are normally sterile and self-cleaning. Mucus drains freely from the sinuses through narrow holes into the nasal cavities. Air passes through these small holes as well. But a common cold or pharyngitis, allergies, an anatomical abnormality or, infrequently, an infected tooth, can lead to sinusitis.

Symptoms

• Facial pains or pressure, especially near affected sinuses.
• Nasal congestion and discharge (could be green, yellow, sometimes blood-tinged)
• Headache
• Fever (sometimes)
• Cheek pain that may resemble toothache
• In the later stages, complete blockage of the sinus openings, blocking the discharge and increasing pain.

How long does it last?

A sinus infection can be acute or chronic.

• Acute sinusitis usually lasts about 3 weeks and is associated with colds or pharyngitis.
• Chronic sinusitis lasts longer, often 3 months or more, and is associated with allergies, anatomical abnormalities and repeated or untreated acute infections.

Treatment

• If you are given a prescription, take the medication as directed. Finish the entire prescription.
• Drink plenty of liquids (water, juices).
• Use a humidifier to loosen congestion.
• For minor pain, use Tylenol as recommended.

Call your doctor if:

• You have a temperature higher than 102 degrees.
• Your symptoms persist over 2 weeks.
• Your condition worsens.
• You develop blurred vision.

General Instructions

• If you are using nose drops, don't allow other persons to use your drops. They will be contaminated by the infection. Discard them after treatment.
• Avoid non-prescription nose drops or sprays. Use prescribed drops only for the recommended time. Both can interfere with normal nasal and sinus function and can be addictive.

David A. Severance, MD
Family Physician, Lincoln Avenue Clinic

Each year, Medical College of Wisconsin physicians care for more than 180,000 patients, representing nearly 500,000 patient visits. Medical College physicians practice at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, and many other hospitals and clinics in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin.