Sinusitis Symptoms in Detail: Explained by ENT Specialists at Magrabi Hospitals

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October 28, 2025

Last updated: 28/10/2025

Many people often ask: What are the detailed symptoms of sinusitis?

Is it just nasal congestion and a mild headache, or can it affect the head, eyes, and overall breathing comfort?

In this comprehensive guide from Magrabi Hospitals, our ENT specialists explain the symptoms of sinusitis in detail, the differences from the common cold, and when persistent signs require medical attention.

Understanding these symptoms early helps prevent complications and ensures timely, effective treatment.

Tip: If you’re suffering from frequent nasal blockage or headaches, don’t ignore them.
Book your appointment now with Magrabi Hospitals’ ENT experts for a thorough evaluation.

How Do Sinusitis Symptoms Begin?

Sinus symptoms usually start after a viral infection or seasonal allergy. When the nasal lining swells and blocks the sinus openings, mucus builds up inside, creating pressure and pain in the head and face.

According to the Saudi Ministry of Health, exposure to cold air, cigarette smoke, or sudden weather changes are common risk factors. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority also stresses the importance of using only approved medications when treating chronic sinus conditions.

What Are the Sinuses and Why Are They Important?

Before diving into the symptoms, it helps to understand the sinuses themselves.
As explained in What Are Sinuses? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment – A Complete Guide to Easier Breathing, the sinuses are air-filled cavities inside the facial bones that connect to the nasal passages.
They lighten the skull, moisten inhaled air, and give the voice its distinctive resonance.

When inflamed or blocked, these cavities fill with mucus, causing discomfort and sometimes pain around the eyes and cheeks. Magrabi Hospitals’ ENT doctors note that chronic inflammation may even lead to secondary ear or eye complications if untreated.

Main Sinusitis Symptoms in Detail

Sinusitis symptoms vary according to the type (acute or chronic) and the affected sinus cavity.

1. Nasal and Respiratory Symptoms

Persistent nasal congestion or obstruction.
Thick nasal discharge, often yellow or green.
Reduced or lost sense of smell and taste.
A heavy sensation or pressure inside the nose and forehead.

2. Head and Facial Symptoms

Frequent headaches that worsen when bending forward.
Pain or pressure in the forehead, cheeks, or around the eyes.
Upper-jaw pain that may feel like a toothache.

3. General Symptoms

Fatigue and overall tiredness.
Bad breath caused by trapped secretions.
Mild fever or heaviness in the head.

If these sinusitis symptoms last more than 10 days or keep returning throughout the year, it’s time for professional medical evaluation.
You can learn about early warning signs in Sinus Symptoms: When It’s Time to See a Doctor.

When Should You See a Doctor?

The Saudi Ministry of Health advises visiting a specialist if:

Facial or eye pain becomes intense.
Headaches persist despite medication.
Nasal discharge turns dark or develops a strong odor.
Fever or exhaustion accompany other symptoms.

At this stage, visiting the ENT Department at Magrabi Hospitals ensures accurate diagnosis and customized treatment.For insights on advanced or worsening cases, see Sinus Infection Symptoms: Six Body Signals That It’s Time to See a Doctor.

Sinusitis or Common Cold? How to Tell the Difference

Comparison	Common Cold	Sinusitis
Duration	Resolves within 7 days	Persists > 10 days or recurs
Discharge	Clear and watery	Thick, yellow or green
Headache	Mild and short-lived	Severe, worse when bending
Fever	Usually none	May rise slightly
Smell	Normal	Often reduced or lost

Recognizing these differences helps avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and guides the right therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know If I Need Sinus Surgery?

Surgery is recommended when medication fails to control symptoms or when permanent blockage is caused by nasal polyps or structural issues. Today, endoscopic sinus surgery is safe, minimally invasive, and performed without external cuts.

Can Sinusitis Affect the Head?

Yes. Sinus pressure often triggers recurring headaches in the forehead and around the eyes. Patients may also feel heaviness or mental fog due to reduced airflow and oxygen.

How Do I Know If I Have Sinusitis?

Recurring nasal congestion, thick discharge, facial pain, and loss of smell are key indicators. A clinical exam or CT scan by an ENT specialist confirms the diagnosis.

Summary

Magrabi Hospitals emphasizes that sinusitis symptoms in detail can vary between individuals, yet they all signal a problem in sinus drainage.
Early diagnosis and proper treatment prevent chronic inflammation and complications that could reach the eyes or ears.

Your health begins with your breath.
Book your appointment today and start your personalized treatment plan with Magrabi’s ENT specialists.

References

Written and medically reviewed by

Dr. Mohammed Kamel

Consultant Otolaryngologist (ENT) – Magrabi Hospitals

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a qualified ENT specialist at Magrabi Hospitals for personalized diagnosis and care.