A sinus infection occurs when the tissues lining the sinuses become inflamed or swollen. These sinuses are air-filled spaces located behind the forehead, cheeks, and nose. While typically caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, and allergies can also contribute to their irritation and blockage. When these cavities become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can multiply, leading to an infection.
Common Sinus Infection Symptoms
Common symptoms include facial pain or pressure, particularly around the eyes, nose, and forehead, which may worsen when bending over. Nasal congestion, often with thick, discolored mucus, is frequent, making breathing difficult. Postnasal drip, where mucus drains down the throat, can also lead to a cough.
Other indicators include headaches, a reduced sense of smell and taste, and pressure or pain in teeth or ears. Fatigue and bad breath can also accompany a sinus infection. While many symptoms overlap with a cold, the persistence and nature of the discharge often distinguish a sinus infection.
Chills and Sinus Infections: The Connection
Chills can occur with a sinus infection, typically indicating a fever. Fever is a regulated increase in body temperature, part of the body’s response to infection. When pathogens invade, the immune system releases pyrogens. These signals travel to the hypothalamus in the brain, which acts as the body’s thermostat, signaling it to raise core body temperature.
As the brain resets the body’s temperature to a higher set point, an individual may feel cold because their current temperature is below this new target. To generate heat, the body initiates rapid muscle contractions, resulting in shivering or chills, attempting to warm itself to the new temperature.
Elevated temperature plays a role in the body’s defense. Many pathogens struggle to thrive at temperatures above 98.6°F (37°C), inhibiting their growth. Fever can also enhance the function of immune cells, making them more efficient at combating infections.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many sinus infections improve on their own, certain symptoms warrant a consultation with a healthcare professional. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist for more than 7 to 10 days without improvement, or if they initially improve then worsen. A high fever, particularly one above 102°F (38.9°C) or 103°F (39.4°C) lasting longer than three to four days, is another sign to seek care.
Severe symptoms, such as intense facial pain not improving with medication, also indicate a need for professional evaluation. Immediate medical attention is important if you experience vision changes, including pain, swelling, or redness around the eyes, blurred vision, or double vision. Other serious signs include a stiff neck, confusion, or a severe headache that is unusually intense or does not respond to over-the-counter pain relievers. These signs could suggest the infection has spread or led to serious complications, such as meningitis or orbital cellulitis.