What happens during a physical exam for sinusitis?
When sinusitis is suspected, patients may receive a thorough ear, nose and throat examination from a specialist in which the facial features will be explored, particularly areas where swelling and redness of the skin occur over the cheekbone. Swelling and redness in the face is often worse in the morning and the gradually improves as the patient remains upright. The sinuses may be felt and pressed by the physician for tenderness, and the teeth may be tapped to help determine if an inflamed paranasal sinus is present.
