Bacterial sinusitis is an infection caused by a bacterium that affects the paranasal sinuses. The affected area can be found in the hollow spaces of the face under the cheekbones and beside the nose. It can sometimes feel like, and commonly get confused for, a toothache due to the location of the pain that some people experience. The bacterial infection causes inflammation in the mucous membrane lining inside the sinuses. The bacterial infection that causes sinusitis often develops as the result of a cold or flu, which is both viral infections. A viral infection can potentially cause swelling of the mucosal lining in the sinuses, which prevents the mucus from being able to properly drain out of the sinuses. The inability of the mucus to drain causes bacteria to collect and colonize, leading to a case of bacterial sinusitis. Thankfully bacterial sinusitis is treatable and a doctor or pediatrician will be able to diagnose a child who has sinusitis. The team at Columbia Clinic Urgent Care is here to help with all of your pediatric urgent care needs.