A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, occurs when the tissues lining the sinuses become inflamed or swollen. It often follows a common cold or allergy episode and can cause uncomfortable symptoms like facial pain, nasal congestion, headaches, and pressure around the eyes or cheeks. Understanding what causes sinus infections and how to prevent them after a cold can help you protect your respiratory health and avoid unnecessary discomfort.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a sinus infection, it is important to seek medical care. Sinus infections require treatment from a medical professional, and delaying care can cause complications. At AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill, we offer convenient illness diagnosis and treatment on a walk-in basis at our clinic in Newton, MA. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot in advance using the button below.
What Causes a Sinus Infection?
Sinus infections are usually caused by viruses, though bacteria and, in rare cases, fungi can also trigger them. When you have an illness like a cold, the nasal passages become inflamed, trapping mucus in the sinuses. This trapped mucus creates a perfect environment for germs to grow, leading to infection. Other common causes of a sinus infection include:
- Allergies: Seasonal allergies can irritate sinus tissues, making them more vulnerable to infection.
- Deviated septum: A structural issue in the nasal cavity that blocks drainage.
- Nasal polyps: Small growths that can obstruct airflow and cause chronic sinus infections.
- Environmental irritants: Exposure to smoke, pollution, or strong odors can inflame the sinuses.
Preventing Sinus Infection from Forming After a Cold
If you have a cold, your sinuses are inflamed and potentially congested, which makes them prone to developing an infection. To prevent infection from developing, consider the following:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and promotes sinus drainage
- Use saline nasal sprays: They keep your nasal passages moist and clear
- Avoid irritants: Stay away from cigarette smoke, perfumes, or air pollution
- Use a humidifier: Moist air can soothe inflamed tissues and reduce congestion
- Rest and manage allergies: Allow your immune system time to recover and treat allergy symptoms early
By keeping your sinuses clear and healthy, you can reduce your risk of post-cold sinus infections.
Treatment Options for a Sinus Infection
Sinus infections occur deep inside of the sinus. They are caused by bacterial growth, and they require medical care to properly diagnose and treat. The standard course of treatment for sinus infections is a course of antibiotics. Antibiotics typically clear up the infection within a couple of weeks. Without proper treatment, symptoms could persist for many weeks, so seeking medical care early is imperative.
Visit AFC Chestnut Hill for Sinus Infection Treatment
Sinus infections can start as mild post-cold congestion but quickly escalate into painful and persistent conditions if left untreated. If you experience severe facial pain, swelling, fever, or symptoms lasting longer than ten days, it’s essential to seek urgent care services. Timely medical evaluation ensures proper treatment, whether it’s antibiotics, nasal sprays, or allergy management, helping you recover faster and prevent complications.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a sinus infection, it’s important that you seek medical care for treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill, our medical providers are available every day from 8am to 8pm to provide convenient treatment for sinus infections. We accept most medical insurance plans and have competitive rates for self-paying patients. Give us a call to learn more at (617) 582-2200.
