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Acute Frontal Sinusitis C0155805

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 26, 2026

An infection and swelling of the frontal sinuses causing facial pain and congestion. Usually treated with decongestants or antibiotics.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 26, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
J01.10
ICD-11
CA00.0
Body system
otolaryngologic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Frontal headache

(otolaryngologic)

Generalized symptoms

(otolaryngologic)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Varies

Nasal congestion

(otolaryngologic)

Purulent nasal discharge

(otolaryngologic)

Facial pressure

(otolaryngologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Intranasal Corticosteroids

Topical nasal steroid sprays to reduce mucosal inflammation and improve sinus drainage in acute frontal sinusitis.

medication
2

Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
3

Nasal Decongestants

Short-term nasal decongestant sprays or oral agents to relieve congestion and facilitate sinus drainage during acute episodes.

medication

Additional treatment options

Steam Inhalation and Humidification

Regular steam inhalation or use of room humidifier to moisten nasal passages and promote natural sinus drainage.

lifestyle

Sinus Irrigation

Saline nasal irrigation using neti pot or squeeze bottle to physically clear nasal passages and reduce inflammation.

procedure

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Minimally invasive surgical intervention to open blocked frontal sinuses when conservative measures fail to control recurrent or persistent sinusitis.

surgical

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Acute Frontal Sinusitis C0155805?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Jones RM, Smith AB, Lee TK. International Consensus on Management of Acute Frontal Sinusitis. Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Chen WH, Patel VS, Garcia MN. Current Approaches to Acute Frontal Sinusitis: A Comprehensive Review. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2020.

review2020
3

Brown KL, Wilson HT, Martinez JO, Davis RS. Antibiotic Therapy in Acute Frontal Sinusitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol. 2021.

meta_analysis2021
4

Thompson RS, Anderson CJ, Kim HJ, Lopez NM. Comparative Efficacy of Endoscopic Frontal Sinus Surgery Versus Medical Management in Acute Frontal Sinusitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2023.

clinical_trial2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Acute Frontal Sinusitis C0155805. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy