How to Diagnose a Sinus Infection

Sinus infections are relatively common and easy to treat. They're marked by inflammation of the sinus cavities, increased mucous production and smelly nasal drips. Since the symptoms of a sinus infection are obvious, it's fairly easy to diagnose a sinus infection.

Things You'll Need

• Thermometer
• Doctor
• Nasopharyngoscope
• X-ray
• Computed tomography

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Check for thick nasal discharge. This discharge will resemble snot, except that it's thicker and might have a greenish color. Discharge is often heavier in the mornings.

• 2

  Take your temperature regularly. Use a thermometer to ensure that your body's temperature stays near 98.6 degrees F. A rapidly rising fever is one of the first signs that you may have developed a sinus infection.

• 3

  Inspect your eyes. It's common for people suffering from a sinus infection to exhibit signs such as swollen eyes and tear ducts. Check to see whether the skin around your eyes has become inflamed.

• 4

  Check for any tenderness or pain in your face. Gently press on your cheekbones and the area surrounding your nose to test for a reaction. Use facial pain as a means to diagnose any swelling or inflammation that might be occurring within your sinus cavities.

• 5

  Discuss the symptoms you've observed with a doctor. By evaluating your symptoms and your medical history, a doctor will be able to diagnose a sinus infection officially. Expect to have your ears, nose and throat examined.

• 6

  Have a nasopharyngoscope inserted into your sinuses to inspect for signs of swelling or infection. A nasopharyngoscope is a slim tube containing lights and a tiny digital camera that can be inserted into your sinuses by way of your nostrils. The images it captures can be used to determine causes of sinus pain.

• 7

  Get an x-ray of your face to inspect for signs of inflammation. The images obtained in an x-ray can provide clear proof that you're suffering from a sinus infection. Before you're able to get an x-ray, though, you'll first need a doctor's orders.

• 8

  Apply for a computed tomography to be made of your head. Like an x-ray or a nasopharyngoscope, a computed tomography image can be used to diagnose a sinus infection. This can be an especially effective way to evaluate sinus conditions deep within your head.