Function

• Sinuses are hollow air pockets located in four primary locations within the skull. These air pockets connect the space between the nostrils and nasal passage and provide insulation for the skull while assisting vocal resonance when speaking. The frontal sinuses are located in the forehead while maxillary sinuses are behind the cheekbones. There are also cavities between the eyes called ethmoid sinuses and the sphenoid sinuses located behind the eyes.
  
  

Viral Sinus Infection

• As sinuses protect against the invasion of foreign bacteria, an occasional disruption may occur. That disruption allows bacteria to enter the sinuses causing inflammation within the sinuses and nasal passages, resulting in a sinus infection. The presence of these increased bacteria can be the result of the lingering effects of a cold or upper respiratory infection. Viral sinus infections are commonly the result of a recent virus in the body.
  
  

Bacterial Sinus Infection

• While the symptoms are similar, a bacterial sinus infection is not triggered by a cold or upper respiratory illness like the viral sinus infection. If the body is unable to resolve the disruption or blockage present with a viral infection within seven to 10 days, the excess bacteria present in the sinus cavity can escalate the infection to bacterial. Bacterial sinus infections can last four to 12 weeks, produce aggravated symptoms like elevated fever or discolored nasal discharge and can require antibiotics to assist in clearing the infection. Viral sinus infections typically resolve themselves without medication in less than four weeks.
  
  

Symptoms

• Viral sinus infections block the air that moves through the sinus cavities. When these passages become inflamed, common symptoms include headaches, nasal congestion and general malaise. Additional symptoms of a viral sinus infection can include a sore throat, fever, cough and bad breath.
  
  

Treatment

• Viral sinus infections usually resolve themselves in less than four weeks. During that time, there are several home treatment suggestions offered to ease the inflammation and facial discomfort. Doctors suggest drinking plenty of fluids, using moist, warm compresses on the face and steam inhalation to thin the mucus. Using a humidifier in the home also helps provide moist air to assist breathing. Over-the-counter saline sprays can also provide temporary relief from discomfort while acetaminophen or ibuprofen can assist with any facial pain.
  
  

Warning

• While viral sinus infections often resolve on their own, you may wish to contact your doctor if you experience pain or inflammation lasting longer than 10 days. If the headache is severe and unassisted with the use of over-the-counter pain medicine, and you experience a persistent fever, you should seek medical assistance for further assessment or treatment.