Sinus Infection
What is Sinus Infection
Sinusitis, more commonly known as a sinus infection, is the inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining of the sinuses. These infections can be both viral or bacterial in origin.
Sinus infections can either be acute or chronic.
Acute
Infection and inflammation that lasts up to 4 weeks.
Chronic
Infection and inflammation that lats for several weeks, but may linger for years with recurring flareups.
Symptoms
Common sinus infection symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Congested or stuffed nose
- Pain or pressure in the face
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Coughing
- Mucus dripping in the back of the throat
- Bad breath
- Fatigue
- Ear pain
- Aching in the upper jaw
Causes
Sinuses are usually clear for air to travel through them, but viruses or bacteria that cause infection can build up if the sinuses become blocked.
Common reasons for the sinuses to become blocked:
- A cold
- Allergies
- Growths on the lining of the sinuses (nasal polyps)
- A deviated septum
- Irritants, like cigarette smoke
Treatment
Most of the time, sinus infections don’t require medications to treat, and they usually get better with time.
In more severe cases, medication or lifestyle changes may be necessary, such as sleeping with a humidifier, or managing your allergies.
When to See a Medical Doctor
If you’re suffering from severe or chronic sinus infections, speaking to a doctor is your best bet at relief. Only a doctor can properly diagnose sinus infections, and make sure nothing else is the matter.
If needed, a doctor can also prescribe medications, or suggest other courses of action to try and relieve symptoms, and prevent future infections.