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If you’ve ever had a sinus infection, you’re familiar with the discomfort and know you never want one again! Sinus infections, or sinusitis, is when bacteria or viruses cause build up in the sinuses that can lead to pain or irritation, according to the CDC.
But sinus infections impact millions of Americans each year, which is why our team at AFC Urgent Care Castle Rock wants to provide some insight into how they work and how they’re treated effectively.
What Is a Sinus Infection?
Sinus issues are a very common problem most of us go through. In fact, more than 3 million sinus infections (also called sinusitis) are diagnosed in the United States each year.
A sinus infection is an inflammation of the tissues in the sinuses, which can lead to a wide range of unpleasant symptoms. While the symptoms often overlap those of other common medical conditions, like a cold or the flu, you will likely experience face-related symptoms with a sinus infection, since it affects the sinus passages behind your face.
Sinus Infection Symptoms
Patients experience similar sinus infection symptoms due to aggressive inflammation of the nasal passages. The most common sinus infection signs to watch for include the following:
- Nasal stuffiness
- Facial tenderness
- Nasal congestion
- Headache
- Postnasal drip
- Cough
- Fever
- Tooth pain
Do I Need Antibiotics for a Sinus Infection?
Sometimes a patient may need antibiotics, but it depends on a case-by-case basis. Sinus infections can be both viral and bacterial. Fortunately, according to studies, about 70% of acute sinus infections will go away within two weeks without antibiotic treatment.
However, if your sinus infection is bacterial in nature, antibiotics can be needed to help rid your body of the infection. Regardless of the source of your infection, though, there are other steps you can take to find relief.
Sinus Infection Treatment
Managing a sinus infection is quite simple whenever you start to feel initial symptoms. At-home remedies and treatment options that accessible for many patients include the following:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat immune-boosting foods.
- Add moisture to the indoor air using a humidifier.
- Use a neti pot or other saline irrigation system.
- Ease facial pain with warm compresses.
- Use over-the-counter medications.
However, intense sinus pain and sinus infection symptoms may require treatment from your local healthcare expert. When this happens make sure you visit AFC Urgent Care Castle Rock for sinus treatment! Our provider team is ready to address your immediate symptoms and ensure you recovery at the fastest possible rate!
Do you think you might have a sinus infection? Visit AFC Urgent Care Castle Rock today for a medical evaluation! No appointment is needed.
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