耳鼻喉科 · 6 min read
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Editorial note: This article was prepared for this website from the sources listed below. Unless a named clinical reviewer is shown, it has not been attributed to or clinically reviewed by an individual KPMC clinician.
What sinus symptoms can feel like
A blocked or runny nose, facial pressure, reduced smell and coloured mucus can occur with sinus inflammation, often after a viral cold. Symptoms alone cannot confirm whether the cause is viral, bacterial, allergic or something else, so persistent or unusual symptoms deserve assessment.
Support recovery safely
Rest, fluids and saline nasal rinsing may ease symptoms. Use only sterile, distilled, or previously boiled and cooled water for rinsing devices. Ask a pharmacist or clinician before using decongestants, especially if you have high blood pressure, take other medicines, are pregnant or are treating a child.
Antibiotics do not treat viruses and are not needed for many sinus infections. If an antibiotic is prescribed, take it exactly as directed and do not share leftovers.
When symptoms need another look
Arrange review if symptoms are severe, repeatedly return, affect only one side, or fail to improve as expected. Dental problems, migraine and other conditions can resemble sinus pain; an examination helps guide the next step.
At a glance
Key takeaways
- Most short-lived sinus symptoms follow a viral illness.
- Use safe water for nasal rinsing and check whether decongestants are suitable for you.
- Antibiotics should be used only when prescribed for a likely bacterial infection.
When to seek care
- Seek urgent care for swelling around an eye, new vision problems, severe frontal headache, confusion, neck stiffness or rapidly worsening illness.
- Arrange clinical review for persistent, recurrent, severe or one-sided symptoms.
General information only. This article does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, seek urgent medical care. In Malaysia, call 999 for an emergency or go to the nearest emergency department.
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