Sinus and nasal cancers are rare but their early symptoms can look a lot like common conditions like sinus infections or allergies. Long-lasting congestion, facial pressure or a blocked nasal passage may not concern you at first. And most of the time, these symptoms are not cancer.
But if they don’t improve or feel different from what you’re used to, it’s important to get them checked. Abdulrahman Alenezi, MD, an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat doctor or ENT) with Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, explained more about these symptoms.
Why these symptoms are often missed
If you have congestion that doesn’t clear up, you might assume that it’s just a sinus infection or allergies and try to treat them with over-the-counter (OTC) options. While most cases of sinus pressure are not cancer, it’s important to pay attention when symptoms don’t go away.
Early signs of sinus and nasal cancer
In the early stages, cancer in the nasal cavity or sinuses can feel like common nasal symptoms:
- Persistent congestion, especially on one side
- Runny nose
- Headaches
- One-sided nasal blockage that doesn’t get better
- Facial pressure or pain
- A reduced or lost sense of smell
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Unexplained nasal drainage
Symptoms that may need closer evaluation
You should contact a health care provider if you have symptoms that:
- Last for several weeks without getting better
- Return quickly after you get treatment
- Only affect one side
- Seem more intense than common sinus symptoms
- Are new or unusual
- Don’t feel better when you use nasal sprays, steroids or other treatments
How these symptoms differ from common sinus issues
It can be hard to tell the difference between a sinus infection or allergies and something more serious.
- Sinus infections: Sinus infections usually improve within seven to 10 days. With a sinus infection, you may have a fever and symptoms on both sides of your face.
- Allergies: Allergies are triggered by things in your environment like pollen or dust. You may notice itching and sneezing and your symptoms may come and go.
When symptoms don’t follow typical patterns
If your symptoms don’t follow these rules it’s time for a checkup, especially if you have long-lasting or one-sided symptoms.
One-sided symptoms are concerning because a tumor in a specific place doesn’t shift. When allergies or a cold cause symptoms, they usually affect both sides or move from side to side.
Factors like exposure to wood dust, metal vapors or leather dust can increase your risk of sinus and nasal cancer. So pay close attention to symptoms and get medical care if you’ve been exposed to these substances in your job or a hobby.
Other signs that should not be ignored
Sometimes, signs of a problem don’t seem related to the nose. Watch for:
- A lump or swelling in the face
- Pain in the face
- Loosening teeth or dental pain without a clear cause
- Vision changes, double vision, loss of vision or eye swelling
- A watery eye
- Persistent headaches
- Swelling in the top of the mouth
When to see a specialist
You should see an ENT if your symptoms last longer than two or three weeks. Don’t ignore one-sided blockage or bleeding. Getting an evaluation helps rule out serious conditions and gives you peace of mind.
How ENT specialists evaluate these symptoms
During a visit, your specialist will review your history and perform a head and neck exam. They may use a small, flexible camera called a scope to look inside your nose for infection, masses or lesions. If they find a mass, they might perform a biopsy.
They may order blood tests or imaging like a CT scan or MRI to get more information. Most of the time, these evaluations do not find cancer.
Why early evaluation matters
Timely evaluation helps find other treatable conditions that may be causing your discomfort. If you’re diagnosed with sinus or nasal cancer, early detection improves your treatment options and leads to better outcomes.
"We can access smaller tumors through tiny cameras placed in the nostrils, without external incisions that can cause scarring and deformity," Dr. Alenezi said.
The bottom line
Most sinus and nasal symptoms are not cancer but you shouldn’t ignore persistent or unusual changes. Getting checked early can help you find answers and the right care.
If you have long-lasting or unusual sinus symptoms, a Banner Health specialist can help evaluate your symptoms and recommend the next steps you should take.
FAQs about sinus and nasal cancer symptoms
Are sinus symptoms usually cancer?
No. Most are caused by infections or allergies.
How long should sinus symptoms last before seeing a doctor?
If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks or don’t improve with treatment, check with your provider.
Is one-sided nasal blockage serious?
It can be a sign that needs evaluation, especially if it’s persistent.
What kind of doctor should I see?
An ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
