A stuffy nose doesn't automatically mean you have a sinus infection. Colds and allergies can cause many of the same symptoms, including congestion, headaches and pressure around your face.
Most sinus infections get better without antibiotics. The tricky part is knowing when your symptoms are following a normal course and when they may need medical attention.
What Causes a Sinus Infection?
A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, occurs when the tissue lining the sinuses becomes inflamed. Colds, allergies and other conditions can cause swelling that makes it harder for mucus to drain normally.
Most sinus infections are caused by viruses and develop after a cold. Bacterial infections can also cause sinusitis, but they are less common.
Common symptoms include:
- Nasal congestion or a stuffy nose
- Facial pressure or pain
- Headache
- Thick or discolored nasal drainage
- Reduced sense of smell
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
Because these symptoms overlap with colds and allergies, the symptoms alone don't always tell you what's causing them. How long they've lasted and whether they're getting better or worse can provide more useful clues.
Most Sinus Infections Don't Need Antibiotics
If a virus is causing your sinus infection, antibiotics won't make it go away. Your immune system can usually clear the infection on its own, and symptoms often improve over the course of several days to a couple of weeks.
While you're recovering, getting enough rest and drinking plenty of fluids can help. Saline nasal rinses may also loosen mucus and relieve congestion. Over-the-counter medications can help with certain symptoms when used as directed.
That doesn't mean every sinus infection should simply be waited out. A bacterial infection or a more severe case may need treatment.
How Long Does a Sinus Infection Usually Last?
There's no exact timeline for every sinus infection, but many viral infections start improving within several days and resolve within a couple of weeks.
The progression of your symptoms matters, too. For example, symptoms that are gradually improving are generally less concerning than symptoms that continue to intensify.
One pattern worth paying attention to is when you start feeling better and then suddenly get worse again. This can sometimes happen with a bacterial infection and is a good reason to have your symptoms evaluated.
When Should You See a Doctor for a Sinus Infection?
Most sinus infections can be managed at home while they run their course. But if your symptoms aren't improving, become more severe, or get worse after initially getting better, it's a good idea to have them evaluated.
You should consider visiting a healthcare provider if you have:
- Symptoms that aren't improving after several days
- Symptoms that improve and then suddenly get worse
- Significant facial pain or pressure
- A high or persistent fever
- Severe congestion or other symptoms that are interfering with your daily routine
Antibiotics aren't needed for most sinus infections because they're usually caused by viruses. If a provider suspects that you have a bacterial infection, they can determine whether antibiotics are appropriate and prescribe them if needed.
Some symptoms require more urgent attention. Significant swelling around the eyes, changes in vision, confusion, or a severe headache should be evaluated promptly.
Get Sinus Infection Care in Bound Brook, NJ at AFC Urgent Care
If you're dealing with worsening sinus pressure, facial pain or congestion that isn't letting up, AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook can evaluate your symptoms and recommend the appropriate next step.
Walk-ins are welcome, so you don't necessarily have to wait for a primary care appointment when you're feeling sick. We treat common illnesses and infections, including sinus infections, and provide same-day urgent care when you need to be seen.
If your symptoms are getting worse or simply aren't going away, save your spot online or visit us today for an evaluation.