Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, the air-filled spaces around the nose and face. It may happen after a cold, allergies, irritation, or infection.
Common symptoms
Sinusitis can cause nasal congestion, thick mucus, facial pressure, reduced smell, headache, cough, bad breath, or tooth-like pain in the upper jaw.
Acute and chronic sinusitis
Acute sinusitis is short-term. Chronic sinusitis lasts longer or keeps returning, often involving allergies, nasal structure, inflammation, or repeated infection.
Severe headache, swelling around the eyes, vision changes, stiff neck, or confusion are warning signs that need urgent care.