What Is Bacterial Sinusitis?

• Inflammation and infection of the sinus cavities caused by bacteria
• Often develops after a viral cold or allergy flare-up
• Can affect any of the sinus areas: frontal, maxillary, ethmoid, or sphenoid

What Causes It?

• Prolonged or untreated viral sinus infection
• Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis
• Nasal polyps or structural blockages
• Allergies that cause mucus build-up
• Weakened immune system or frequent colds

What Are the Symptoms?

• Facial pain or pressure (especially around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead)
• Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
• Nasal congestion or stuffiness
• Headache or pain behind the eyes
• Fever
• Tooth pain (especially upper molars)
• Bad breath or reduced sense of smell
• Fatigue

How Is It Diagnosed?

• Physical exam and discussion of symptoms
• Sinus X-rays or CT scan if symptoms are chronic or recurrent
• Nasal endoscopy in persistent or severe cases
• Culture of nasal discharge (rare, mostly for complicated cases)

What Is the Treatment?

• Antibiotics (typically 5–10 days, based on severity)
• Nasal saline irrigation or sprays to clear mucus
• Decongestants (short-term use only)
• Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Warm compresses to ease sinus pressure
• Rest and hydration

What Are the Risk Factors?

• History of allergies or asthma
• Deviated nasal septum
• Smoking or exposure to air pollutants
• Frequent colds or upper respiratory infections
• Dental infections

How to Prevent It?

• Manage allergies effectively
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Use a humidifier in dry environments
• Wash hands regularly to avoid infections
• Stay hydrated to thin mucus
• Consider flu and pneumonia vaccines

When to Seek Medical Help?

• Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement
• Severe facial pain or swelling
• High fever
• Vision changes or confusion
• Recurring sinus infections throughout the year