Feeling stuffy in the wintertime is a very common occurrence. Nasal congestion is a very common illness symptom associated with mild viral infections like colds, COVID-19 and the flu. It can also be triggered by allergies and environmental changes. In some cases, a case of simple nasal congestion can turn into a more serious secondary infection called a sinus infection, which can cause severe congestion, and sinus pressure or facial pain. Keep reading to learn more about what sinus infection symptoms feel like and how to treat them.
Sinus infections are caused by bacterial growth deep within the sinuses, and they often require treatment to get better. However, it can be difficult to determine whether you’re just congested, or have a sinus infection. At AFC Urgent Care North Bergen, we see patients every week who come in thinking they just have a lingering cold — only to discover their symptoms are actually caused by a sinus infection. Don’t ignore your symptoms. Walk into AFC Urgent Care North Bergen today for rapid same-day care near North Bergen, NJ, or schedule your visit online in advance below.
Why Do Sinus Infections Lead to Facial Pressure and Headaches?
Sinus infections occur when mucus builds up and becomes compressed within your sinus passages. Sinus infections can stem from a mild condition that is not properly managed, such as a common cold. When mucus builds up in your sinuses, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria to grow which leads to a sinus infection. This build up of mucus can lead to your sinuses becoming super full, with no way to flush mucus out, which commonly leads to pressure and pain on the face near the nose, and even headaches.
Diagnosing Sinus Infection-Induced Symptoms
Sinus infections often are mistaken for severe congestion in the early stages. Patients describe the symptoms of a sinus infection as feeling stuffed up or feeling like they have a “full head.” As pressure increases inside the cavities, the surrounding nerves become irritated — which is why sinus pressure can feel sharp and deep.
If you suspect you have a sinus infection, it is important to have your symptoms evaluated by a medical professional so that you can begin treatment right away. Most times, a sinus infection is easily diagnosed with a medical exam of your symptoms.
When to Visit Urgent Care for Sinus Infection Symptoms
If you’re congested and experiencing facial pressure or headaches, you should not ignore your symptoms. If your symptoms are continuing to get worse over time, or causing significant discomfort, you likely have a sinus infection. Treatment for sinus infections typically includes prescription antibiotics, and without immediate treatment symptoms can persist for weeks on end.
Get Sinus Infection Relief Today at AFC Urgent Care North Bergen
You don’t have to live with sinus pressure or wait weeks for a primary care appointment to open up. Sinus infections can be incredibly uncomfortable, and they require treatment from a medical professional to resolve. At AFC Urgent Care North Bergen, our providers offer same-day diagnosis and treatment for cases of severe congestion and sinus infections.
Our clinic offers same-day care on a walk-in basis, 7 days a week. We work with most medical insurance plans, and have affordable self-pay rates. Walk into AFC Urgent Care North Bergen today for fast symptom diagnosis and treatment in North Bergen, NJ! To learn more about our walk-in services, give us a call at (201) 588-1300.
