What causes facial swelling in sinusitis?
Nov 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, facial swelling caused by sinusitis may result from improper nose-blowing techniques, local pressure, acute sinusitis, perisinusitis, or periorbital cellulitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, maintain nasal hygiene and avoid picking the nose with hands. A light diet is advised, with reduced intake of spicy and irritating foods.
In general, facial swelling caused by sinusitis may result from improper nose-blowing techniques, local pressure, acute sinusitis, perisinusitis, or periorbital cellulitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Improper nose-blowing technique: Blowing the nose too forcefully or pinching both nostrils simultaneously can abruptly increase nasal cavity pressure, causing inflammatory secretions to spread into facial tissues and trigger swelling. Switch to a single-nostril, gentle blowing method—press one nostril closed and gently exhale through the other to expel secretions, avoiding excessive force.
2. Local pressure: During a sinusitis flare-up, prolonged pressure on the sinus area or wearing tight masks or glasses can impair local blood circulation and worsen swelling. Avoid pressing on the sinus regions, choose loose, breathable masks and lightweight eyewear, and sleep in a semi-reclining position to reduce pressure on the sinuses and facial tissues.
3. Acute sinusitis: Bacterial infection causes acute inflammation of the sinus mucosa. Inflammatory stimulation leads to mucosal congestion and edema, with accumulated secretions compressing surrounding tissues and resulting in facial swelling. Follow your doctor’s instructions to use medications such as cefixime dispersible tablets, eucalyptus oil and pinene enteric-coated soft capsules, and mometasone furoate nasal spray to reduce inflammation and promote secretion drainage.
4. Perisinusitis: If acute sinusitis is not controlled promptly, inflammation may spread beyond the sinus walls into surrounding soft tissues, causing localized facial swelling and pain. As directed by a physician, medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, Biyan Tongqiao granules, and budesonide nasal spray may be used to alleviate symptoms.
5. Periorbital cellulitis: When inflammation spreads further into the tissues around the eye socket, it causes diffuse inflammation, leading to significant facial swelling accompanied by redness and pain in the eye area. Treatment under medical supervision may include intravenous ceftriaxone sodium, metronidazole injection, and dexamethasone injection. In severe cases, surgical incision and drainage may be required to remove pus and prevent further spread of infection.
Maintain good nasal hygiene in daily life and avoid digging the nose with fingers. Adopt a light diet, minimize intake of spicy and irritating foods, and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins. Maintain regular sleep patterns and engage in moderate exercise to boost immunity, helping prevent colds that could trigger or worsen sinusitis symptoms.
