Review symptoms such as facial pain or pressure, nasal congestion, thick nasal discharge, reduced smell, headache, fever, or cough
Check how long symptoms have lasted and whether they are improving or worsening
Examine the nose, throat, and ears for swelling, redness, or drainage
Assess tenderness over the sinuses by pressing the forehead and cheeks
Ask about recent colds, allergies, dental problems, or upper respiratory infections
Evaluate for signs of bacterial sinus infection such as symptoms lasting more than 10 days, severe symptoms, or worsening after initial improvement
Use nasal endoscopy if needed to look inside the nasal passages and sinus openings
Order imaging such as a CT scan if symptoms are severe, recurrent, chronic, or unusual
Consider allergy testing if allergies may be contributing
Consider culture of nasal drainage in persistent or treatment-resistant cases
Seek urgent medical evaluation for swelling around the eyes, vision changes, severe headache, high fever, or confusion