Sometimes it can be very difficult to tell whether or not you have a sinus infection or something else. There are many common symptoms of a sinus infection that you should review to help you determine what is causing your discomfort.

Sinusitis produces a unique set of symptoms that depends upon which of the particular sinuses is being affected. One common characteristic of sinusitis is experiencing a headache upon waking in the morning. If you experience pain in the forehead, it could indicate an infection of the frontal sinuses.

An infection in the maxillary sinuses can cause your cheeks to be sore to the touch and can also create toothaches. The ethmoid sinuses are located near the corner of the eyes and inflammation of the ethmoid sinus cavities can lead to swelling of the eyelids and the tissues surrounding the eyes. Inflammation of the ethmoid sinuses can also cause soreness or tenderness to the sides of the nose, a stuffy nose or even a loss of the sense of smell.

The sphenoid sinuses are the least frequently affected of the sinuses. When the sphenoid sinuses do become infected, it can lead to earaches or neck pain.

It is important to be aware that most people who have sinus infections experience pain or tenderness in multiple locations. Furthermore, the symptoms don’t usually give a clear definition of which particular sinuses are affected.

Some other common sinus infection symptoms include fever, weakness, tiredness, coughing and nasal congestion. In addition, drainage of mucus from the sinuses down the back of the throat can cause a sore throat. This is a condition called postnasal drip.

If you feel that you may be suffering from sinusitis, you should contact your physician immediately. He or she can examine you and perform some tests that will help you with your diagnosis.