Signs of a summer sinus infection

Sinus infections affect millions of people every year and can be incredibly uncomfortable. Our sinus cavities sit above the eyes and behind the nose and when these become infected it can make you feel terrible. Most sinus infections won’t last longer than four weeks but some can hang around for up to 12. If you’re struggling with a sinus infection then it can impact your life in many different ways so understanding what the signs are - and treating them - can make a big difference. These are the signs of a summer sinus infection that you need to look out for.

• Feeling pain around the sinus area. This is often the first indication that something is wrong. Sinus pain can be mild, moderate or severe and will affect you above the eyes and around the nose. The pain is caused because the sinus cavities become inflamed and swollen.
• A sinus headache. This type of headache is one of the worst to experience and tends to be at its most acute in the mornings. It can feel like a pounding in your head and be accompanied by pain in other related areas, such as the jaw and the ears.
• A sore throat and a cough. If your throat feels raw and itchy - and it feels like the discomfort is getting worse - then this is one of the symptoms of a summer sinus infection. The longer you have the infection the more time mucus will be irritating your throat, which is the reason that it can become sore. A sore throat can lead to a painful cough - sinus infection coughs are often at their worst first thing in the morning.
• A congested nose. If your sinuses are swollen and inflamed then this can make your nose feel very congested. You may not be able to smell or taste and you may have to breathe through your mouth until the congestion clears.
• Feeling fatigued. A sinus infection can take quite a toll on your body and leave you feeling exhausted. It’s important that you take the time to rest while sick - and to recover afterwards.
• A fever. When we have a fever it’s a sign that our body is working to fight an infection so that’s something you can often expect with a summer sinus infection. All our bodies are different so you may experience a very mild fever, none at all, or you may have a much more severe fever while your body is working towards being healthy again.
• A change in the colour of mucus. When you have a sinus infection the brightly coloured mucus is very common. This could be yellow, green or brown - and it’s a clear sign that something out of the ordinary is going on.
• Oral pain. The pressure in your sinuses can also cause pain in related areas, such as the mouth, including gum tenderness and tooth pain.

If you suffer from sinus infections then you’re not alone - these are just some of the symptoms that will affect millions of people this summer.

Harley Street is the UK's foremost private medical centre which is dedicated to providing high-quality care for your ear, nose, throat, head & neck, and balance-related disorders. Find out more information on how Harley Street ENT can help you here.