Nurse Felicia,

I am having terrible pain in my face. At first I thought it was a toothache because it seemed to start around my jaw but now it has spread up through my cheeks. What could it be?
A Friend in Need

Dear Friend,

Sounds like you’ve got a case of sinusitis, an inflammation of the membranes lining your sinuses. While not serious, it can be very painful and should be treated.

Sinusitis is usually caused by a blockage of the sinuses, either by an accumulation of secretions due to a common cold, swelling due to allergic reactions, or rarely, polyps (abnormal growths).

Because the fluid that is trapped in your sinuses may contain bacteria, infection can develop requiring treatment with antibiotics.

The first thing you should do is see your doctor. While sinusitis can be diagnosed simply based on symptoms, your doctor will probably want to take a small sample of fluid using a nasal swab, to determine if an infection is present.

Typically only a small percentage of cases are bacterial infections requiring antibiotics but if you do have one you will be given a course of antibiotics for 10-14 days.

Your symptoms will likely resolve sooner but it is important to keep taking the full course of antibiotics as directed to avoid recurrence and emergence of resistant bacterial strains.

There are also some simple treatments you can try at home. Steam inhalations are highly recommended to help reduce congestion. Drinking lots of fluids may also help liquefy secretions. Finally, warm compresses on your nose and face may also help to reduce pain and discomfort.

Feel better and breathe easy, Nurse Felicia

Felicia Price is an American Registered Professional Nurse working in Kigali.

Please send your health queries – whatever they may be - to askfelicia@gmail.com