Sinus Symptoms and Possible Sinus Infection: When to Seek Care

How to tell when a lingering cold may need a clinician's evaluation

MEDICALLY REVIEWED - APPROVED FOR WEBSITE PUBLICATION

This page is for general education only and does not replace individualized medical advice. This resource does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. For questions about your own child, contact your child's current healthcare professional.

Magnolia Pediatrics, Valley Children's Healthcare
2497 E. Herndon Avenue, Suite 101, Clovis, CA 93611 | 559-538-3070

Congestion, runny nose, and cough are usually part of a viral cold and may also occur with allergies. Yellow or green mucus alone does not show that a child has a bacterial sinus infection or needs an antibiotic. The child's overall condition, how long symptoms have lasted, and whether they improve or worsen are more useful clues.

Urgent warning signs - check this first

Call 911 now for severe trouble breathing, blue or gray lips or face, a seizure, a child who is limp or unresponsive, or another life-threatening emergency.

Seek urgent medical evaluation now for redness or swelling around an eye, eyelid, or forehead; severe or worsening headache; a stiff neck; confusion; persistent vomiting; strong sensitivity to light; or a child who looks very ill. These symptoms need prompt assessment and should not be treated as a simple sinus infection at home.

When to contact your child's healthcare professional today

Nasal discharge or daytime cough lasting more than 10 days without improving.
Symptoms that seemed to improve but then become worse again, especially new fever, worsening cough, or increased nasal discharge.
Fever of 102.2 F (39 C) or higher together with thick nasal discharge for at least 3 days in a row.
New ear pain, significant facial pain or pressure, headache that is getting worse, or symptoms that make it hard for the child to sleep, drink, attend school, or take part in usual activities.
A child with an immune problem, a complicated medical condition, or a parent who is concerned the child is getting worse.

What families can do at home

Offer fluids and rest. Encourage sleep and usual meals as tolerated.
Saline nose drops or spray can help loosen mucus. For infants, gentle suction after saline may help before feeding or sleep; keep the device clean according to its instructions.
A cool-mist humidifier may make dry air more comfortable. Empty, clean, and dry it as directed to reduce mold and germ growth.
Avoid over-the-counter cough and cold medicines in children younger than 4 years unless the child's clinician specifically recommends one. Do not give more than one product with the same ingredient.
Do not use leftover antibiotics or antibiotics prescribed for someone else. They may not help and can cause side effects or antibiotic resistance.

About possible sinus infection and antibiotics

Most sinus symptoms improve without antibiotics. A clinician considers the pattern of symptoms - persistent symptoms without improvement, a clear worsening after improvement, or severe symptoms - along with the child's examination and medical history. Antibiotics are not decided by mucus color alone.

If an antibiotic is prescribed, use it exactly as directed and contact the prescribing clinician if your child has a rash, significant diarrhea, vomiting, or another possible medication reaction.

Sources and medical review

Sources checked: August 14, 2026 | Medical review completed: August 14, 2026