Sinus infections are common and often start with symptoms similar to a cold or seasonal allergies. Nasal congestion, facial pressure, and headaches can be uncomfortable but manageable at first. However, not all sinus infections resolve on their own. Knowing when to seek urgent care can help prevent complications and get you the right treatment at the right time. Continue reading to learn more about when to visit urgent care for sinusitis symptoms.
For same-day sinus infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill. Our medical team is available 7 days a week to treat your symptoms with no appointment necessary. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, simply book below!
Understanding Sinus Infection Symptoms
A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, occurs when the sinus cavities become inflamed and filled with fluid. This trapped fluid creates an environment where bacteria, viruses, or fungi can grow. Early symptoms often include nasal congestion, thick nasal discharge, facial pressure, headache, and post-nasal drip. Fatigue, cough, sore throat, and reduced sense of smell are also common.
Many sinus infections begin as viral infections and improve within 7 to 10 days. However, symptoms that worsen, linger, or become severe may signal a bacterial infection or complications that require medical care.
Signs You Should Visit Urgent Care
You should consider visiting an urgent care center for sinus infection symptoms if you experience any of the following:
1. Symptoms Lasting More Than 10 Days
If your congestion, facial pressure, or nasal discharge hasn’t improved after 10 days, or improves then suddenly worsens, you may have a bacterial sinus infection that requires treatment.
2. Severe Facial Pain or Pressure
Intense pain around the cheeks, eyes, forehead, or teeth can indicate significant sinus inflammation. Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
3. High or Persistent Fever
A fever higher than 101°F, or a low-grade fever that persists for several days, may indicate a more serious infection that needs medical attention.
4. Thick Yellow or Green Nasal Discharge
While mucus color alone isn’t always diagnostic, thick, discolored discharge combined with facial pain, fever, or worsening symptoms is a reason to seek care.
5. Swelling Around the Eyes or Face
Swelling or redness around the eyes, eyelids, or cheeks can be a sign of spreading infection and should be evaluated promptly.
6. Vision Changes or Severe Headache
Blurred vision, double vision, or severe headaches are not typical sinus symptoms and require urgent evaluation.
7. Symptoms in High-Risk Patients
People with weakened immune systems, chronic sinus issues, asthma, or other underlying health conditions should seek care sooner if symptoms worsen.
How Urgent Care Can Help
At an urgent care center, providers can evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and determine whether your sinus infection is viral or bacterial. Treatment may include antibiotics for bacterial infections, nasal sprays, decongestants, pain relief, or steroid medications to reduce inflammation. Urgent care also offers convenient, same-day visits without long wait times, making it an accessible option when symptoms become difficult to manage.
Certain symptoms may suggest complications or another condition, such as migraines, dental infections, or ear infections. Urgent care providers can help identify the cause and ensure appropriate treatment.
Get Same-Day Sinus Infection Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill
You should seek urgent care for sinus infection symptoms if they last longer than 10 days, become severe, or are accompanied by fever, facial swelling, or vision changes. Early evaluation can lead to faster relief and help prevent complications. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms require medical attention, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill. We can provide timely guidance and treatment. Our urgent care center is open 7 days a week and provides the highest quality of care to all patients in the Denver, CO area. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sinus infection treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 639-1000.
