Q: Why did my 6-year-old have sudden cheek pain while getting nasal suction at the clinic?
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 6-year-old had thick yellow nasal discharge, so we visited the pediatrician. My child usually handles nasal suctioning well, but today, right in the middle of suctioning, they suddenly grabbed their cheek (between the lower eye and the bridge of the nose), screamed in pain, and started crying inconsolably. There was no nosebleed, no fingernail pinch from the assistant, and no ear pain, but my child was deeply distressed. The doctor mentioned that the sensation of deep mucus being cleared out can sometimes cause pain. Could the removal of deep mucus really cause sharp pain near the cheekbones? Could this be related to the sinuses, and does my child need an X-ray?
Answer:
It can be very alarming to see your child suddenly cry out in severe pain, especially during a routine procedure they have tolerated well in the past.
Why This Pain Occurs
The area your child grabbed—between the bridge of the nose and under the eye—corresponds directly to the maxillary sinus, a hollow, air-filled cavity inside the cheekbone.
Sudden Pressure Changes: When a child has thick, yellow or green mucus, it often indicates acute sinusitis or a secondary bacterial process where the sinus cavities are filled with thick secretions and the lining is inflamed. Clinical suction generates strong negative pressure. If a blockage of thick mucus is abruptly pulled out, it can create a sudden vacuum or pressure shift inside the sinus, triggering a sharp, shooting pain.
Inflamed Mucosa: When the mucosal lining is already swollen and irritated from an infection, any sudden movement of air or suction against the sinus ostium (the opening into the nasal passage) can be significantly more painful than clearing ordinary, thin mucus.
Home Care and Symptom Relief
Pain Management: If your child continues to complain of facial soreness, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (10–15 mg/kg) or ibuprofen (5–10 mg/kg) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Warm Compresses: Apply a warm, damp cloth gently over the cheek area for 5 to 10 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day, to help ease facial discomfort and encourage natural sinus drainage.
Saline Sprays or Rinses: Using sterile saline nasal sprays can help thin out thick secretions gently at home without strong mechanical suction.
Hydration and Rest: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids to keep mucus thin, and consider slightly elevating their head during sleep to promote drainage.
Does My Child Need an X-ray?
In pediatric medicine, sinus X-rays are rarely necessary for uncomplicated sinusitis or pressure-related pain. Pediatricians typically diagnose and treat sinus issues based on clinical symptoms and an in-person physical exam. Imaging is usually reserved for situations where complications are suspected or when symptoms fail to improve after standard medical treatment.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Monitor your child closely and seek prompt medical re-evaluation if you notice any of the following "red flag" symptoms:
Redness, warmth, or swelling around the cheek, forehead, or eye
Puffiness around the eyelid, changes in vision, or pain when moving the eyes
Persistent high fever (39°C / 102.2°F or higher)
Severe headache, lethargy, or repeated vomiting
Pain that progressively worsens or does not improve with pain medications
If your child remains in discomfort or if the thick nasal discharge lasts longer than 10 to 14 days without improvement, contact your pediatrician to evaluate whether prescription treatment, such as antibiotics, is needed for acute sinusitis.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
