A sinus infection is a condition that causes inflammation inside the lining of the sinuses. Sinus infections impair your respiratory functions, blocking nasal passages and making it difficult to breathe normally.

As sinus pressure builds, it results in pain and tenderness around the eyes, cheeks, nose, and forehead. Cases that last 12 weeks or more are considered chronic sinus infections.

What are the symptoms of a sinus infection?

Sinus infections block mucus from draining properly, causing pain and discomfort. Symptoms of a sinus infection include the following:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Postnasal drip
• Congestion
• Pain and tenderness in the face
• Pain in the teeth
• Bad breath
• Green or yellow postnasal drainage

If your symptoms become severe or unmanageable, it’s important to seek medical treatment right away. If left untreated, sinus infections can become chronic or result in meningitis. Quick Doc provides timely access to same-day, onsite medical treatment, with no appointment necessary.

What causes sinus infections?

Sinus infections are most often caused by the common cold or the flu. Sinus infections can result from viruses, bacteria, and, less commonly, fungus. When the infection reaches the sinuses, the area becomes inflamed, preventing the drainage of mucus.

Sinus infections are also caused by narrowed sinus openings, allergies, and nasal polyps (benign growths filled with mucus).

How are sinus infections treated?

Your Quick Doc provider recommends treatment based on your individual health, medical history, and symptoms.

Antibiotics are an effective treatment for bacterial sinus infections. Antibiotics are prescribed for up to 28 days, depending on the details of your condition. If your sinus infection is caused by allergies, immunotherapy to reduce reaction to specific allergens can help relieve your symptoms.

In many cases, no medical treatment is required. Sinus infections often clear up on their own. At-home remedies like bed rest and rinsing your nasal passages help your body fight the infection. Your Quick Doc provider might recommend a saline nasal spray or over-the-counter decongestant to help ease your symptoms as you recover.

If you’re suffering from any of the symptoms of a sinus infection, book an appointment by phone today.