The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the face. Sinusitis is swelling of their lining, commonly after a cold or flu.
Acute sinusitis often improves within a few weeks. Longer-lasting or recurrent symptoms may need medical review.
Migraine and other headache disorders are sometimes mistaken for sinus pain.
A pharmacist or GP may assess symptom duration, nasal discharge, fever and the location of pain.
Examination or referral to ENT may be needed when symptoms are severe, recurrent, one-sided or persistent.
Dental disease, migraine, TMD and neuralgias may need to be considered when the pattern is atypical.
Many cases improve with rest, fluids, saline nasal rinsing and standard pain relief when safe for the person.
A pharmacist or clinician may advise treatments for nasal symptoms. Antibiotics are not routinely needed for uncomplicated viral sinusitis.
Persistent or recurrent symptoms should be reviewed rather than repeatedly self-treated.
Note whether facial pain occurs with blocked nose, discharge, reduced smell or infection symptoms. This helps distinguish sinus symptoms from other facial pain patterns.
Recurrent facial pressure and uncertainty about its cause can affect sleep, concentration and confidence.
Support for sleep, anxiety, low mood and coping can sit alongside medical treatment. It does not mean the pain is imagined.
If you feel unable to keep yourself safe, call 999 or go to A&E. For urgent mental-health help that is not an immediate emergency, use NHS 111 and select the mental-health option where available.
Yes. Upper teeth may ache because their roots are close to the maxillary sinuses, but dental causes must still be considered.
No. Migraine, TMD and other conditions can cause facial pressure or pain.
No. Colour alone does not prove a bacterial infection or determine treatment.
Usually for recurrent, prolonged, severe, one-sided or complicated symptoms.
Other facial pain conditions and useful information
This information is for general guidance and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional.
What 567 people affected by trigeminal neuralgia and facial pain told TNA UK Pain is usually recorded at the point of care. Much of its impact happens somewhere else: at […]
