Facial Pressure and Discomfort: Is It Sinusitis?

Cheek issues

I would like to ask the doctor, I have been experiencing a cold recently, but what troubles me is that my right cheek feels tight and has a sense of pressure.
Sometimes the area around my right nose itches, but I have a runny nose on the left side, while the right side does not have any nasal discharge.
Occasionally, my right cheek and right nose feel numb.
Could you please tell me what the issue might be? Previously, I was concerned and consulted a neurologist, who examined me and found everything to be normal.
I also visited an ENT specialist, who suggested that it could be sinusitis.
I would like to ask if my symptoms are consistent with sinusitis.
Here are my symptoms: 1.
Runny nose on the left side, none on the right.
2.
Occasionally feeling nasal congestion on the right side, but usually not.
3.
Tightness and pressure sensation around the right cheek and right nose.
4.
Sometimes itching and numbness around the right nose.
5.
Pressing on the right nose sometimes causes pain, but it is not severe.

Hao~, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/03/07

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, sinusitis can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pressure, and runny nose.
It is recommended to seek medical attention for a detailed examination to clarify whether it is sinusitis.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2014/03/07

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a range of symptoms that could potentially be linked to sinusitis, but there are also other factors to consider. Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinuses, can indeed cause facial pressure, discomfort, and a variety of other symptoms. Let's break down your symptoms and what they might indicate.

1. Facial Pressure and Discomfort: The sensation of tightness or pressure in your right cheek and around your right nose is a common symptom of sinusitis. When the sinuses become inflamed, they can cause a feeling of fullness or pressure in the face, particularly in the areas where the sinuses are located. This can also lead to discomfort when pressing on the affected area.

2. Nasal Symptoms: You mentioned that your left nostril is running while the right one is not. This asymmetry can occur in sinusitis, especially if one side of the sinuses is more affected than the other. The right side may feel blocked or congested, leading to the feeling of pressure and discomfort. The itching sensation around your right nose could also be related to inflammation or irritation in that area.

3. Numbness and Tingling: The feelings of numbness or tingling around your right cheek and nose could be concerning. While these sensations can occur with sinusitis due to pressure on nearby nerves, they can also indicate other issues, such as nerve irritation or even a neurological condition. Since you have already seen a neurologist and had normal results, this may be less likely, but it’s something to keep in mind.

4. Pain on Pressure: The fact that you experience some pain when pressing on your right nose but it’s not severe could suggest localized inflammation. In sinusitis, the sinuses can become tender to touch, especially if there is an infection or significant inflammation present.

Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to follow up with an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist if you haven't already. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies like a CT scan, to assess the condition of your sinuses. This can help determine if you have sinusitis or another condition that might be causing your symptoms.

In the meantime, there are several self-care measures you can take to alleviate your symptoms:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin mucus and promote drainage.

- Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or taking a hot shower can help relieve nasal congestion and pressure.

- Saline Nasal Sprays: These can help moisturize your nasal passages and reduce irritation.

- Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to your face can help relieve sinus pressure and discomfort.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, severe headache, or vision changes, seek medical attention promptly. It’s essential to address these symptoms early to prevent complications.

In summary, while your symptoms do align with sinusitis, the presence of numbness and tingling warrants further investigation. Consulting with an ENT specialist will provide you with a clearer diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

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