12 Symptoms of a Sinus Infection

A sinus infection or sinusitis occurs when a virus or bacterial infection causes the sinuses on either side of the nose, behind the forehead, and behind the eyebrows to become inflamed or swollen.  Other causes include allergies, tooth infections, nasal polyps, and a deviated septum. There are two types of sinus infection: acute and chronic. Acute infections are short-lived and generally caused by allergies or the common cold. Chronic infections can last for months and often recur.

1. Pain

Pain is one of the first symptoms people experience with a sinus infection, and it is also the most noticeable. There are many sinuses located around the nose and eyes, and they can all cause dull aches or intense sharp pain. When inflammation and swelling take hold, the pressure can also cause a pounding, radiating effect. This symptom may be felt through the forehead, jaw, and teeth, as well.