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Sinus Congestion
Sinus Congestion (an inflammation of the mucous membranes of one or more of your sinuses)
Emergent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?
  • severe headache, severe facial pain with fever of 101.4 (rectal) or greater
  • stiff neck, fever, vomiting, irritable
Yes No
Seek Immediate Medical Attention!
These symptoms can be life-threatening.


  • eight sinus areas are located in the head
  • saline nose drops can be especially helpful if they are instilled before naps and bedtime, then carefully use bulb syringe to clear nasal passages
  • milk products do not make congestion worse in most children
  • antibiotics only help nasal congestion and a runny nose that is caused by a bacterial infection, not those caused by a viral infection (cold)
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    Urgent Care - Have you identified one or more of the following symptoms?
    • facial pain and/or swelling
    • nasal discharge with fever of 101.4 or greater for longer than 48-72 hours
    • nasal congestion for longer than 2 weeks
    • ear pain with or without fever
    Yes No

    Contact Your Health Care Provider.

    Self-Management - You can help in the following ways:
    • acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) as needed for fever and/or pain
    • decongestants (consult with Health Care Provider if child is less than 12 months of age)
    • normal saline nose drops as needed for stuffy nose (note: do not use OTC nasal sprays, unless recommended by your Health Care Provider)
    • encourage child to increase fluids
    • cool mist humidifier in child's room
    • warm wet compresses to facial area to relieve pain
    • elevate head of bed (HOB) to help sinus drainage and allow child to sleep


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    Call Your Health Care Provider If:
    Your child does not get better, new symptoms appear, you are concerned in any way or you have questions.