Sinus infections cause all kinds of unpleasant symptoms. While the most famous symptom of a sinus infection is thick, discolored mucus, there are other sinus infections symptoms to be on the lookout for, as well.

Our AFC Urgent Care Monroe Road team highlights some additional sinus infection symptoms to be aware of below, so keep reading!

What Causes a Sinus Infection?

A sinus infection (medically known as sinusitis) is an inflammation of the sinuses. It is often caused by bacterial infection, but it can also be caused by viruses and fungi.

People with weak immune systems are more likely to develop bacterial or fungal sinus infection. Acute sinus infection lasts three to eight weeks, but if a sinus infection lasts longer than eight weeks, it’s considered to be chronic. We’ve listed the most common symptoms of a sinus infection below.

Common Sinus Infection Symptoms

• Postnasal drip
• Discolored nasal discharge (greenish in color)
• Nasal stuffiness or congestion
• Tenderness of the face (particularly under the eyes or at the bridge of the nose)
• Frontal headaches
• Pain in the teeth
• Coughing
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Bad breath

Will a Sinus Infection Cause a Migraine?

Not usually. Sinus infections can cause sinus headaches, and while sinus headaches and migraines have many symptoms in common, they’re not the same type of headache. Once the underlying sinus issue is resolved, sinus headaches should go away. However, with migraines, ongoing medication may be needed to help prevent them from recurring.

An additional differentiating factor between the two types of headaches is the presence of mucus. With a migraine, nasal discharge is clear. If you have a real sinus headache that is caused by a sinus infection, though you’ll also typically have a fever and thick, discolored nasal mucus.

Symptoms of Sinus Infections and Migraines

• Sinus infection: pain in the head, especially the forehead
• Sinus infection: itchy, watery eyes
• Sinus infection: worsening pain when you move
• Migraine: nausea or vomiting
• Migraine: sensitivity to light or sound
• Migraine: severe pain located on one size of the head

Have further questions about sinus infections? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our AFC Urgent Care Monroe Road team today! We’re here for you now and always.