Sinus Infection Symptoms and When to See A Doctor

If you are experiencing sinus infection symptoms, it can be difficult to decide when to see your doctor as the symptoms can sometimes go away on their own. However, sinus infections can be quite uncomfortable and even lead to more serious health problems if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss the different types of sinus infections, their symptoms, and the various treatment options available. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent sinus infections from occurring in the first place to help you avoid any unwanted trips to your doctor.

Share This Post

If you are experiencing sinus infection symptoms, it can be difficult to decide when to see your doctor as the symptoms can sometimes go away on their own.

However, sinus infections can be quite uncomfortable and even lead to more serious health problems if left untreated.

In this article, we will discuss the different types of sinus infections, their symptoms, and the various treatment options available.

We will also provide some tips on how to prevent sinus infections from occurring in the first place to help you avoid any unwanted trips to your doctor.

What is a sinus infection?

A sinus infection, also called sinusitis or rhinosinusitis, is a common condition caused by an inflammation of the sinuses and is also classified as an upper respiratory infection.

The sinuses near your nose and nasal cavity, also called paranasal sinuses, are air-filled cavities in the bones around your nose and can play a function in the flow of mucus from your nose through nasal passages.

A sinus infection can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or fungi while they can be irritated by allergies, nasal polyps, and even tooth infections that spread to them.

The function of these air-filled pockets is still debated and the answers range from providing a buffer zone for injuries or temperature changes from breathing through your nose to decreasing the weight of your skull.

YouTube player
Sinus Infections: UMMCVideos

What are the different kinds of sinus infections?

There are four different kinds of sinus infections according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology and they include:

Acute sinusitis

Acute sinusitis is the most common form and is defined as a sinus infection lasting no longer than four weeks.

Subacute sinusitis

Subacute sinusitis lasts between 4-12 weeks.

Chronic sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis is defined as sinus inflammation that lasts for more than 12 weeks.

Recurrent sinusitis

Recurrent sinusitis is sinusitis that comes back more than four times per year and may be caused by allergic reactions or anatomic problems in the sinuses.

What causes a sinus infection?

The sinuses are normally filled with air but when they become blocked and filled with fluid, usually mucus, germs (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) can grow and cause an infection. The blockage of the sinuses can be caused by:

What are the symptoms of a sinus infection?

The symptoms of a sinus infection can vary depending on which sinuses are affected but the most common symptoms include:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Postnasal drip
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Nasal discharge that is usually thick yellow or green
  • Sinus headaches
  • Facial pressure that can cause pain and discomfort
  • Blocked or stuffy nose that can cause a reduced sense of smell or complete loss of smell
  • Fever
  • Bad breath, also known as halitosis
  • Tenderness to the touch of certain places on your face with the most pressure

Symptoms of sinus infections in children may be different and include:

  • Headaches
  • Ear pain
  • Thick discharge from the nose
  • Postnasal drip
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Bad breath
  • Tooth pain
  • Cold symptoms lasting longer than seven days
  • Fever

If you or your child are exhibiting severe or persistent symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor or your child’s pediatrician as soon as possible as sinus infections can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Shop Treatments for Your Allergies TODAY with our Top Telehealth Recommendations 🤧🤧

Picnic Allergies: With Picnic, allergy sufferers can, for the first time, achieve meaningful relief from their allergy symptoms and expect a better normal. Picnic provides a personalized treatment plan that ships to you automatically based on the selected cadence.

>>> Shop Picnic Allergy TODAY

Get Cleared: Get personalized treatment from home, with free ongoing care from US-licensed allergists and nurses.

>>> Shop GetCleared TODAY

What are the treatment options for sinus infections?

The majority of sinus infections go away on their own but there are some treatments that can help reduce the symptoms and speed up recovery time. The most common treatment options include:

Over-the-counter medications

Common over-the-counter medications used to treat sinus infections include:

  • Decongestants: A nasal decongestant works by shrinking the swollen blood vessels in your nose which relieves congestion
  • Saline nasal sprays: A saline nasal spray helps to moisten the sinuses and reduce dryness and irritation
  • Oral or injected corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that can help reduce sinus swelling
  • Antihistamines: When you take antihistamines, it helps dry excess mucus that comes with a sinus infection and can also help with itchiness and sneezing
  • Pain relievers: An over-the-counter pain medicine can help relieve sinus pressure and pain and help to reduce fevers too

Prescription medications

If your symptoms don’t improve after using over-the-counter medicines, your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication. These include:

Nasal irrigation

Nasal irrigation is a sinus and nasal rinse that can be done with a neti pot, sinus rinse bottle, or nasal irrigator that provides quick relief as it helps to flush out the sinuses, reduce nasal blockages, and reduce congestion.

It uses a saline solution that thins out your mucus and washes away irritants and allergens.

Make sure to only use sterile water that has been boiled or run through a filter first for your irrigation solution.

Other treatment options

Drinking lots of water and staying hydrated will also help your body recover and keep your mucus thinner which may help prevent blockage.

Placing a warm compress on your sinuses can also help reduce pain and pressure. Inhaling warm steam from hot water or drinking hot drinks may also temporarily relieve sinus symptoms but be careful that the steam or liquid is not too hot.

If allergies are the cause of your sinusitis, you can also avoid any allergens that may irritate your sinuses.

Herbal treatments such as capsules or essential oils can also help to reduce sinus congestion although more study is needed to verify their benefits.

As with any new medicine or treatment, talk to your doctor first before trying them.

How long do sinus infections usually last?

The majority of sinus infections go away within one to two weeks but some may last for four weeks or longer.

If your symptoms last for more than four weeks, you may have chronic sinus infections which can last even longer than 12 weeks.

It is important to practice sinus hygiene and see your doctor if your symptoms persist as sinusitis can lead to serious complications such as spreading to the eyes, brain, or bones if left untreated.

When do I need to see my doctor about a sinus infection?

If your symptoms last for more than seven days without improvement or if you develop severe symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as possible.

You also need to see your doctor or seek medical attention if:

  • You have a fever that is higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit
  • You have sinus pain that is getting worse
  • Your sinuses are swollen and tender to the touch causing extreme discomfort
  • You have a severe headache or facial pain

If you are uncertain about needing medical treatment, please consult with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.

Can I prevent sinus infections?

There are some things you can do to help prevent sinus infections such as:

  • Washing your hands often, especially after you blow your nose, sneeze, or cough, and especially during cold and flu season
  • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with your hands
  • Practicing sinus hygiene by using a neti pot or nasal irrigation to rinse your sinuses regularly
  • Quitting smoking and avoiding any secondhand cigarette smoke
  • Minimizing your exposure to environmental and workplace irritants such as dust, smoke, and fumes
  • If you have allergies, manage them effectively with medication or immunotherapy and by avoiding the allergens if possible
  • Using a humidifier when the air is dry
  • Drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated

These may help to prevent sinus infections and sinus issues or at least reduce the severity and duration of sinusitis if you do get sick.

Summary

Sinus infections are inflammation or swelling of the sinuses that can be caused by a viral infection, bacterial infection, fungal infection, or allergies.

The symptoms of a sinus infection include nasal congestion and blockage, thick yellow or green mucus drainage from the nose, facial pain and pressure, and fever although the symptoms can vary depending on if you are an adult or child. Most sinus infections go away within a week or two but if they are severe or persist then you need to see your doctor.

There are a wide array of treatment options ranging from over-the-counter medications and nasal irrigation to prescription medicines.

You can also help prevent sinus infections by practicing sinus hygiene and minimizing your exposure to environmental and workplace irritants among others.

Allergies are a common cause and managing them effectively is also key in preventing sinus infections.

If you have any more questions about sinus infections, their symptoms, or treatment options, please consult with your doctor or healthcare provider.

References and Sources:

NIH

American Academy of Otolaryngology

Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery

https://journals.lww.com/co-otolaryngology/Abstract/2008/06000/Review_of_current_guidelines_related_to_the.10.aspx

medically reviewed and fact checked

Share This Post

Sesame Care

Find the best price for great doctors and specialists

  • Thousands of doctors and specialists
  • $13,000,000+ saved by patients
  • 95% patient satisfaction
  • 4.3 on TrustPilot
     

Popular Destinations

Health

Medication

Telehealth Reviews

Shop

Pharmacist Membership

About Us

Pharmacy Near Me

Recent Articles

picnic allergy

Picnic Allergy Review: Does This Personalized Treatment Work?

Picnic is a telehealth company that provides personalized treatment for allergy relief, but do they actually work? We hope to provide you with an honest review. 


We review and include products we think are useful for our community. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission. For more info, please read our ad policy, content principles and vetting policy.

Read More »

Where to Buy Bronkaid?

Bronkaid is a medication that is used to treat symptoms of mild and intermittent asthma. The medication is meant for quick-relief of asthma symptoms. It is a combination of two active ingredients, ephedrine sulfate and guaifenesin.

Read More »

Share On:

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Get updates and learn from the best

More To Explore

Winter Allergies: How Indoor Allergens Can Affect Your Health

The most common winter allergens include cockroaches, dust mites, mold and mildew, and pet dander and fur.

Seasonal Allergies: Causes, Symptoms, and Best Drugs To Use

People experiencing allergic rhinitis as a result of seasonal allergies are likely to have symptoms that include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy or

Fluticasone Nasal Spray: Allergy Drug Information Guide

Fluticasone nasal spray is an effective long-term treatment for allergies that can be purchased over the counter.

Fluticasone Side Effects: Flonase Nasal Spray Warnings

Fluticasone, a generic medication commonly sold under the brand name Flonase, is sold over the counter and is generally considered safe for most people.

How to Get Rid of Allergies

As allergy season rolls around each year, many of the 50 million peoplebattling allergies find themselves wondering; can allergies be cured for good?

Can I Take Benadryl While Drinking?

If you suffer from allergies, you know how miserable they can make you feel with the sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes and

Allergy Headache: How Allergies Can Cause Headaches

Allergic rhinitis can cause a variety of symptoms, including itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and nasal congestion. Less commonly, allergy symptoms

Why is My Eye Red?

We will also cover when you need to see your doctor about your eyes and how to prevent red eyes from happening in the

Allergy Symptoms: Common Causes and Early Signs to Look For

Common allergy symptoms for seasonal allergies include nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, and sneezing.

Best Allergy Medicine: The Complete Comparison Guide

If you are one of the 50 million Americans who suffers from allergies, you know how frustrating it can be to try and manage

Can Allergies Cause a Sore Throat?

Allergies can cause a sore throat, as well as other symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, fatigue, weakness, cough, and headache.

Cold vs. Allergies Guide: Comparison of Symptoms

Both allergies and colds can cause symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. However, there are symptoms unique to each, too.

Desloratadine: Uses, Side Effects, Dosages, and Interactions

Desloratadine is a second-generation antihistamine that is commonly used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria.

Diphenhydramine: Uses, Side Effects, Dosages, and Interactions

Diphenhydramine is well known for its treatment of allergic rhinitis (hay fever), but the medication can also be used for the treatment of other,

Fall Allergies: Common Causes and What You Can Do

The most common causes of fall allergies are ragweed, mold and mildew, dust mites, and pet dander and fur.

Fexofenadine: Uses, Side Effects, Dosages, and Interactions

Fexofenadine is a second-generation antihistamine that is commonly used to treat symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis and urticaria.

Claritin vs Zyrtec: Which Is Better?

Loratadine and cetirizine are generally shown to be equally effective in the treatment of allergy symptoms. However, there are tradeoffs with each.

Loratadine: Uses, Side Effects, Dosages, and Interactions

Loratadine is a generic medication that is commonly used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or redness and itching caused by hives.

Xyzal vs Zyrtec: What’s the Difference?

Antihistamine medications are often the first treatment option for people with allergy symptoms, but there are so many on the market, it can be

Is Flonase an Antihistamine?

Popular decongestant medications like Zyrtec, Xyzal, Loratadine, Nasacort, Afrin, Azelastine, Cetirizine, Fexofenadine, Nasonex, and Flonase all have different pros and cons, but Flonase is