What are the symptoms of a sinus infection?
Stuffy nose, thick yellow or green mucus, pressure around your cheeks, forehead or eyes, and a dulled sense of smell. Bacterial infection is more likely if symptoms last more than 10 days, get better then worse ("double worsening"), or start with a fever of 102°F+ and facial pain for 3–4 days (Rosenfeld et al., 2015). Symptoms lasting 12 weeks or more mean chronic sinusitis.
How is sinusitis treated?
Viral sinusitis usually resolves in 7–10 days with saline rinses, fluids and OTC pain relievers. Suspected bacterial cases may get antibiotics, while chronic sinusitis is managed with daily nasal steroid sprays and rinses, sometimes followed by endoscopic surgery. Vision changes, eye swelling or a severe headache are red flags—seek care right away. Allergies and asthma raise the risk of chronic disease.
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
FAQ
- Does green mucus mean I need antibiotics?
- No. Color alone doesn't tell viral from bacterial; duration and pattern matter more.
- Is a neti pot safe?
- Yes, if you use distilled, sterile or previously boiled water—never straight tap water.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-25
References
- Rosenfeld, R. M., et al. (2015). Clinical practice guideline (update): Adult sinusitis. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, 152(2 Suppl), S1–S39.
- Fokkens, W. J., et al. (2020). EPOS 2020. Rhinology, 58(Suppl 29), 1–464.