Can a Sinus Infection Cause a Fever?

That pounding pressure in your face, the stuffy nose, and the general feeling of being unwell—a sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, can be incredibly uncomfortable. As you're dealing with these symptoms, you might take your temperature and discover you have a fever. This leads to a very common question: Can a sinus infection cause a fever?

The short answer is yes; a sinus infection can absolutely cause a fever. However, whether you develop a fever often depends on the underlying cause of your sinusitis. Let's talk about why this happens and what it tells you about what’s going on inside your head.

The Fever Connection: Your Body's Defense Mechanism

A fever is not an illness itself; it's a symptom and a sign that your body's immune system is actively fighting an invader. When your body detects pathogens like viruses or bacteria, it releases chemicals that raise your internal body temperature. This higher temperature helps your immune system work more efficiently and makes it harder for the germs to survive.

So, when you have a sinus infection with a fever, it indicates that your body is mounting a significant immune response against the infection.

Viral vs. Bacterial Sinus Infections: The Fever Difference

The likelihood and characteristics of a fever can often point to whether your sinusitis is viral or bacterial.

1. Viral Sinus Infections (Most Common)

The majority of sinus infections (over 90%) start as a common cold, which is a viral infection. In these cases, the fever, if it occurs, is usually low-grade (typically below 100.4°F or 38°C). It may be present during the first few days of the illness alongside other cold symptoms like a runny nose and sore throat. As the cold runs its course, the fever typically subsides, even if sinus congestion persists.

2. Bacterial Sinus Infections (Less Common)

Sometimes, a viral infection can lead to a secondary bacterial infection. The blocked sinuses create an environment where bacteria can easily multiply. Signs that your sinus infection might be bacterial include:

• A fever that persists or worsens: Instead of going away, you might develop a higher fever (often above 101°F or 38.3°C).
• "Double Sickening": You start to feel better from a cold, only to suddenly get much sicker with worsening symptoms.
• Prolonged symptoms: Your symptoms last for more than 10 days without any improvement.

When Should You Be Concerned About a Fever?

While a fever is a common part of your body's healing process, there are times when it signals a need for medical attention. Consult a doctor if you experience:

• A fever lasting more than 3-4 days.
• A very high fever (over 103°F or 39.4°C).
• A fever accompanied by a severe headache, stiff neck, shortness of breath, or confusion.
• Symptoms that do not improve or get worse after 10 days.

An ear, nose, and throat professional can determine if your sinus infection is bacterial and may require antibiotics, or if it's viral and can be managed with supportive care.

How to Manage Sinus Infection Symptoms and Fever

Whether your sinus infection is viral or bacterial, you can take steps at home to feel more comfortable:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, broth, or herbal tea. Fluids help thin mucus and keep your throat moist.
• Rest: Give your body the energy it needs to fight the infection.
• Use a Humidifier: Inhaling moist air can help soothe irritated sinus passages and loosen congestion.
• Try Saline Nasal Sprays: These can help flush out mucus and allergens without medication.
• Use Over-the-Counter Medications: Pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can reduce fever and relieve sinus pain and headaches. Decongestants can also provide temporary relief from nasal stuffiness.

When Surgery Becomes an Option for Chronic Sinusitis

If you’re dealing with chronic or recurrent sinus infections—especially those that don’t respond to medications—a structural issue may be to blame. Conditions like nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or blocked sinus passages can prevent proper drainage and lead to frequent infections. In these cases, a sinus specialist (ENT) may recommend endoscopic sinus surgery to open up the sinus pathways, remove obstructions, and improve airflow. Surgery is typically considered only after other treatments have failed but can provide long-term relief and significantly reduce the frequency of infections.

The Bottom Line: Don't Let Sinus Problems Linger

So, can a sinus infection cause a fever? Absolutely. It’s a standard part of your body’s immune response. A mild, short-lived fever often points to a viral infection, while a persistent or high fever might suggest a bacterial one.

Listening to your body is important. If your sinus symptoms are severe, won't go away, or are worrying you, it’s always best to seek professional medical advice. The team at Kentuckiana ENT makes it easy to schedule an appointment and get on the right track to feeling better, so you can get back to enjoying life in Greater Louisville and Southern Indiana.