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Nasal cavity and sinus cancer

Also called: Paranasal sinus cancer, Nasal cavity cancer, Nose cancer

A rare cancer inside the nose or sinuses that can look like a sinus infection on one side that won't clear.

Typical ageOver 50
Linked toWood, leather, and nickel dust

Overview

Because early symptoms match common sinus problems, symptoms on just one side that don't respond to treatment are a reason for a scope exam or scan.

Treatment is usually surgery, often through the nose, with radiation.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • One side of the nose always blocked
  • Nosebleeds or bloody discharge
  • Pain or pressure on one side of the face

Less common

  • Numb cheek or upper teeth
  • Bulging or watery eye, or double vision
  • Loss of smell

Look up a symptom: Double vision or droopy eyelids that get worse when tired · Facial pain or pressure · Loss of taste or smell · Nosebleed · One side of the nose always blocked · Swollen or puffy eyelid or eye

When to get medical care

Call 911Trouble breathing, heavy bleeding, a seizure, sudden confusion, or fainting: call 911.
Get care todayFever during cancer treatment, or new or quickly worsening symptoms.
See a doctor soonSymptoms lasting more than 2 to 3 weeks.

Causes

Changes in a cell's genes that make it grow out of control. Most happen by chance; some are linked to the risk factors below or to inherited genes.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • Cancer isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Wood, leather, flour, nickel, or chromium dust at work
  • Smoking
  • HPV

Diagnosis

Tests look for the cause. Many people checked for these symptoms turn out not to have cancer.

Questions you may be asked

  • When symptoms started and whether they're getting worse
  • Family history of cancer
  • Past illnesses, treatments, and exposures

The exam

A physical exam, focused on where the symptoms are.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Scope exam of the nose:
  • CT and MRI:
  • Biopsy:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and your overall health. A cancer care team makes a plan with you.

Self-care

  • Write down symptoms and when they started
  • Bring someone with you to appointments
  • Ask for copies of test results
  • Ask about clinical trials: they can offer new treatments
  • Quit smoking: it helps at every stage

Surgery, radiation, and sometimes chemotherapy.

Prevention

To lower risk or find it early:

  • Wear protective masks around workplace dusts
  • Don't smoke

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an oncologist (cancer doctor), often working with surgeons and radiation doctors.

Living with it

  • Keep a simple notebook of symptoms, medicines, and questions for visits.
  • Ask for a survivorship care plan when treatment ends.
  • Gentle activity, like walking, can ease tiredness.
  • A cancer diagnosis can affect mood. Tell the care team if you or your family feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Many people keep working during or after treatment.
  • Ask about changes that help, like flexible hours. Workers may be covered by the ADA.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your cancer team. Some treatments can harm a baby.
  • Ask about saving eggs or sperm before treatment if you may want children later.

For caregivers

  • Go to visits when you can and take notes.
  • Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
  • Learn the warning signs that need fast care, like fever during treatment.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Outlook depends on the type and stage. Cancers found early are usually easier to treat, and treatments keep improving.

Support is available: ask about social workers, nutrition help, and support groups.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started
  • Past test results and scans

Questions to ask

  • Why is it only on one side?
  • Will surgery affect my eye or smell?
  • What stage is it, and what are the treatment options?
  • Are there clinical trials for me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Nasal cavity and sinus cancer

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.