SINUS PAIN AND CONGESTION

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

Symptom Definition

• Sensation of fullness, pressure and pain on the face overlying a sinus cavity (e.g. above the eyebrow, behind the eye, around the eye, or over the cheekbone)
• Pain or pressure may be bilateral (on both sides of face), but more often is unilateral (on one side of the face)
• Associated symptoms are a blocked nose, nasal discharge, and/or postnasal drip

General Information

• Sinus pain and congestion: The opening from the nose into the sinus can become blocked by an infection or nasal allergy. The symptoms of sinus pain and congestion (pressure) result from trapped fluid in the sinus.
• Sinusitis: Sometimes fluid trapped in sinuses can become infected with bacteria. When this occurs it is called bacterial sinusitis.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

• You have a common cold, see COLDS
• COUGH is the main symptom
• SORE THROAT, is the main symptom

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

See Other Topics:

• Colds
• Cough
• Sore Throat

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