A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, occurs when the sinuses' tissue becomes inflamed or swollen. This can block normal mucus drainage, causing pressure, pain, and congestion. Sinus infections can be acute, lasting a short time, or chronic, lingering for months. How long yours lasts depends on the cause, your overall health, and the treatment you receive.

For same-day sinus infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove. Our medical team can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and plan treatment with no appointment necessary. Just walk in or plan your visit in advance below!

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General Sinus Infection Timeline

• Viral sinus infections often clear up within 7–10 days without specific medical treatment.
• Bacterial sinus infections may take 10 days or more to resolve and often require antibiotics.
• Chronic sinus infections can last 12 weeks or longer and may need a combination of treatments.

Causes of Your Sinus Infection

Several factors can trigger sinusitis, including:

1. Viruses – The most common cause, often developing after a cold.

2. Bacteria - More likely if symptoms last over 10 days or worsen after initial improvement.

3. Allergies – Seasonal or year-round allergies can inflame sinus tissue.

4. Nasal polyps – Noncancerous growths that block sinus passages.

5. Deviated septum – A crooked nasal septum can make drainage harder.

6. Environmental irritants – Smoke, pollution, and strong odors can trigger sinus inflammation.

Sinus Infection Treatments

Treatment depends on whether the infection is viral, bacterial, or allergic. Common options include:

• Rest and hydration - Drinking fluids helps thin mucus and promote drainage.
• Saline nasal rinses – Using a neti pot or saline spray can flush out mucus and allergens.
• Steam inhalation – Warm, moist air can ease congestion and reduce sinus pressure.
• Decongestants – Available as pills or nasal sprays, these reduce swelling in nasal tissues (short-term use only).
• Antihistamines – Useful for sinus infections linked to allergies.
• Pain relievers – Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease discomfort.
• Antibiotics – Prescribed only for bacterial infections confirmed or strongly suspected by a healthcare provider.

Chronic sinusitis may require longer courses of medication, allergy treatment, or even surgery if structural problems are to blame.

Get Walk-In Sinus Infection Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove

A sinus infection might start as a simple stuffy nose, but when the pressure builds, the headaches worsen, and the drainage just won’t quit, it’s time to get professional help. Urgent care can determine whether your sinus infection is viral or bacterial, provide fast relief for your symptoms, and ensure you get the right treatment before it turns into a lingering, painful problem. At AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove,we provide fast, reliable testing and treatment to help you feel better fast. Don’t let flu symptoms linger– visit our walk-in clinic today for expert care! We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact our office directly at (973) 239-2300.