Sinus infections distinguished by their duration and their location: Acute sinusitis with a typical duration of less than three months, and Chronic sinus infections which typically last for more than three months. There are four types of sinusitis, and corresponding symptoms:
Sinus
| Acute |
Chronic |
Ethmoid Sinus
(behind the eyes) |
Nasal congestion with a discharge and/or postnasal drip (a mucous drip down the throat).
Pain or pressure around the inner corner of the eye or on the side of the nose.
A fever is frequently present and pain is often worse when lying down. |
Nasal discharge is long-lasting and may be accompanied by pressure across the bridge of the nose.
Pain is usually worse in the morning or while wearing eye glasses.
The throat may be continually sore and there may be a problem with bad breath. |
Maxillary Sinus
(behind the cheek bones) |
Infection may cause red or swollen cheek bones with a nasal discharge or postnasal drip.
A fever is usually present. |
Infection may cause pressure below the eye and pain in one or more teeth.
A cough may be present at night. |
Frontal Sinus
(behind the forehead) |
A severe headache is usually present in the forehead with a nasal discharge, postnasal drip and a fever.
Symptoms are worse when lying down. |
A long-lasting headache is present in the forehead.
Patient may have a history of damage in the sinus area. |
Sphenoid Sinus
(behind the eyes) |
Pain may be felt on top of the head, across the forehead or behind the eyes with a nasal discharge or postnasal drip.
Symptoms are worse when lying down and a fever is usually present. |
Long-lasting migrating head pain. |
