Sinus pain can be a symptom of COVID-19, though it is not typically among the most prominent indicators. Many conditions can cause sinus discomfort, making it challenging to determine the exact cause.
Sinus Pain and COVID-19
Sinus pain, often described as facial pressure or a headache, can occur with COVID-19, but it is generally less frequent or severe compared to symptoms like fever or cough. When present, it usually manifests as part of a broader upper respiratory infection. Congestion and a runny or stuffy nose are more commonly reported nasal symptoms associated with COVID-19, and these can contribute to feelings of sinus pressure. Sinus-related symptoms, such as congestion and headache, can make it difficult to distinguish from a common sinus infection. They rarely appear in isolation and are more often accompanied by other, more characteristic signs of COVID-19.
Other Common COVID-19 Symptoms
Common COVID-19 symptoms include fever or chills, a new continuous cough, and fatigue. Individuals also experience muscle or body aches, a headache, and a sore throat. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing can indicate a more serious infection. A symptom that often differentiates COVID-19 from other illnesses is the new loss of taste or smell, which can be complete or an alteration. Some people may also experience gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Differentiating Causes of Sinus Pain
While COVID-19 can cause sinus pain, other conditions like the common cold, allergies, and bacterial sinusitis are also frequent culprits. Understanding the differences in symptom presentation can help distinguish between these illnesses.
Common Cold
The common cold presents with milder symptoms that gradually build and resolve within a few days to a week. Cold symptoms often include sneezing, a runny nose, and less severe body aches, and they rarely involve a high fever. Sinus pain from a cold usually stems from inflammation and congestion.
Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies are immune responses to specific environmental triggers such as pollen or pet dander. Allergy symptoms often include itchy eyes, nose, or throat, clear nasal discharge, and sneezing, and they tend to be continuous and seasonal. Allergies do not cause fever or body aches.
Bacterial Sinusitis
Bacterial sinusitis, an infection of the sinus cavities, can cause more intense and persistent facial pain or pressure, often accompanied by thick, discolored nasal discharge. A fever can be present, and symptoms can last longer than 10 days, sometimes worsening after initial improvement. This condition can develop after a viral infection, such as a cold, when trapped mucus allows bacteria to proliferate. While COVID-19 and sinus infections share symptoms like congestion, headache, and sore throat, facial pain is more specific to a sinus infection.
When to Seek Medical Advice or Testing
If you experience concerning symptoms or multiple symptoms commonly associated with COVID-19, seeking medical advice is advisable. Testing for COVID-19 is the definitive way to confirm a diagnosis, especially if you have been exposed to someone with the virus or if your symptoms are worsening. Early testing is particularly important for individuals at higher risk of severe illness, such as those aged 50 or older, pregnant individuals, or those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems.
Consult a healthcare provider if your symptoms are severe, include trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, or an inability to wake or stay awake. If your symptoms are not improving or are getting worse, or if a high temperature lasts for 5 days or more, medical consultation is advisable. Following public health guidelines, including isolation if COVID-19 is suspected or confirmed, helps prevent further spread.