What does a sinus infection feel like?
Sinus infections are characterized by inflammation and swelling of sinus tissues which can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Facial Pain and Pressure: Sinus infections can cause pain and pressure in the face, especially around the nose, cheeks, and forehead. The pain may be constant, throbbing, or aching, and can worsen when you bend over or lie down.
- Congestion: Nasal congestion is a common symptom of sinus infection, making it difficult to breathe through your nose. You may feel stuffed up in your head, with limited airflow.
- Runny nose: A sinus infection can also cause your nose to run, resulting in a clear, yellow, or green discharge.
- Headache: Sinus infections can cause headaches, which may be dull, sharp, or throbbing. The headaches are often worse in the morning and may be accompanied by facial pain.
- Fever: Some sinus infections can cause a fever, which is a sign that your body is fighting an infection.
- Fatigue and weakness: Sinus infections can leave you feeling tired and weak, with a lack of energy.
- Cough: Sinus infections can cause post-nasal drip, which may lead to a cough. This is because the excess mucus from your sinuses drips down the back of your throat, triggering a cough reflex.
- Bad breath: Sinus infections can cause an unpleasant odor from the nose or mouth, known as halitosis. This is due to the accumulation of bacteria and mucus in the sinuses.
- Tooth pain: Sinus infections can sometimes cause pain in the upper teeth, as the sinuses are located near the tooth roots. This pain may be mistaken for a dental problem.
- Swollen lymph nodes: Lymph nodes in your neck and under your chin may become swollen and tender due to the infection.
- Ear pain: Sinus infections can cause pain in the ears, as the sinuses and ears are interconnected.
The symptoms of a sinus infection can vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual variations. If you experience persistent sinus symptoms lasting for more than 10 days, it's important to visit a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.