Symptoms of Sinusitis: Complete Clinical List
Sinusitis symptoms include headache, nasal congestion, runny nose, fever and 2 more. Learn which are most common, how they progress over time, and which warning signs require prompt evaluation.
Updated March 27, 2026
The main symptoms of Sinusitis include headache, nasal congestion, runny nose, fever and 2 more. Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, often following a cold or allergy. It causes facial pain, nasal congestion, thick nasal discharge, and reduced sense of smell. Acute sinusitis lasts up to 4 weeks; chronic sinusitis persists over 12 weeks.
Clinical Context
Symptoms of Sinusitis vary between individuals and may change over the course of the condition. Early recognition allows for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Clinical Pathway
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Symptoms of Sinusitis: Complete Clinical List?+
The main symptoms of Sinusitis include headache, nasal congestion, runny nose, fever and 2 more. Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, often following a cold or allergy. It causes facial pain, nasal congestion, thick nasal discharge, and reduced sense of smell. Acute sinusitis lasts up to 4 weeks; chronic sinusitis persists over 12 weeks.
What are the first symptoms of Sinusitis?+
Early symptoms often include headache and nasal congestion. These can be subtle at first.
How many symptoms of Sinusitis are needed for diagnosis?+
Diagnosis is based on clinical criteria and does not require all symptoms. Your doctor considers full medical history and test results.
Can Sinusitis be present without obvious symptoms?+
Yes — some presentations can be asymptomatic or mild, especially in early stages.
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