Red flags & when to go in person for Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Sinus infections, or sinusitis, happen when the spaces inside a child's nose and head become swollen and blocked. This can cause pain, stuffy nose, and sometimes fever. Many sinus infections get better with home care or advice from a doctor through telemedicine. However, some signs mean your child needs to see a healthcare provider in person quickly. These include very high fever, swelling or redness around the eyes, severe headache, or if your child is very sleepy or hard to wake. Telemedicine can help you understand symptoms and suggest treatments for mild cases, but it cannot replace an in-person exam when serious problems might be present. Knowing when to seek in-person care helps keep your child safe and healthy.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever lasting more than 3 days or above 39°C (102°F) — seek urgent in-person care
• Swelling, redness, or pain around or behind the eyes — go to emergency or urgent care immediately
• Severe headache, neck stiffness, difficulty breathing, or excessive sleepiness — get emergency medical attention

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild sinus infection symptoms
• Providing advice on home care and symptom management
• Determining when in-person evaluation is needed

What telemedicine cannot do

• Evaluating severe symptoms or complications like eye swelling
• Performing physical exams or imaging needed for diagnosis
• Treating urgent or life-threatening conditions

What is a Sinus Infection in Children?

A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, happens when the tissues inside your child's sinuses get swollen and blocked. This can trap mucus and germs, causing pain and stuffiness. Children may have a runny or stuffy nose, cough, facial pain, or fever. Sinus infections often follow a cold or allergies.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Typical signs include:

Most of these symptoms improve with rest and home care.

When to Use Telemedicine for Sinus Infection

Telemedicine can help if your child has mild symptoms. A healthcare provider can:

Telemedicine is convenient and safe for many cases but has limits.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Seek urgent in-person care if your child has:

These signs may mean a serious infection or complication.

How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the healthcare provider's advice carefully. This may include:

Keep a close eye on your child's condition.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms and when they began
• List any medications your child is taking
• Prepare to describe any allergies or past sinus issues
• Find a quiet, well-lit place for the tele-visit
• Have a flashlight ready to help show inside your child's nose if asked

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions for medicines and care
• Use nasal saline sprays or humidifiers as recommended
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any changes
• Seek in-person care if red flags appear or symptoms worsen
• Schedule a follow-up visit if advised

FAQs

Can my child’s sinus infection be treated without antibiotics?

Many sinus infections in children are caused by viruses and get better without antibiotics. Your healthcare provider may suggest home care like rest, fluids, and nasal saline sprays first.

When should I worry about my child’s sinus infection?

If your child has a high fever lasting more than 3 days, swelling or redness around the eyes, severe headache, or is very sleepy, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Is it safe to use telemedicine for sinus infections?

Yes, telemedicine is often safe and helpful for mild sinus infection symptoms. It allows you to get advice quickly. However, it cannot replace in-person exams when serious symptoms are present.

What home treatments can help my child feel better?

Using saline nasal sprays, keeping your child hydrated, using a humidifier, and giving age-appropriate pain relievers can help ease symptoms.

Sources

1. Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Sinusitis in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
3. Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Sinusitis — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has any concerning symptoms or red flags, seek prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.