A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, starts with inflammation in the paranasal sinuses, which are tiny, air-filled areas behind your nose, cheeks, eyes, and forehead. Sinus glands naturally create mucus, which drains through small pores in the nasal cavity. However, if this drainage system becomes clogged, mucus can back up and produce an infection breeding ground. This blog will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sinus infections so you know when to seek the appropriate medical care.
What Causes a Sinus Infection
Acute sinusitis frequently occurs when recovering from a cold. Your sinuses are a network of hollow chambers located behind your cheekbones, forehead, and nose. The air that enters your nose goes through your sinuses to your lungs.
Tissue lines the insides of your sinuses. They also produce mucus, which helps keep the inside of your nose moist. Mucus flowing out of your sinuses also removes debris, such as bacteria or viruses that air taken in while breathing may carry into your nose.
Sinusitis occurs when bacteria and viruses colonize inside of your sinuses, causing their tissues to expand. Simultaneously, your sinuses begin to produce more mucus. Normally, mucus draining from your sinuses wipes out intruders. However, when your sinus tissues enlarge, mucus becomes trapped.
Your sinuses then become clogged and fill with fluid, making your nose feel stuffy or clogged. Your face may become tender to touch, and you may experience a sinus headache.
Symptoms of a Sinus Infection
Acute sinusitis symptoms in adults frequently follow a cold that does not improve or worsens after 7 to 10 days. Among the symptoms are:
- Bad breath or scent loss
- Cough, which is often worse at night
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
- Pressure-like pain behind the eyes and facial tenderness
- Nasal congestion and discharge
Can I Go To Urgent Care for a Sinus Infection?
Although there are some home remedies to lessen the symptoms associated with a sinus infection, acute sinusitis caused by a virus can be treated with antibiotics. At AFC Urgent Care Perth Amboy, our medical professionals are able to diagnose acute sinusitis according to your symptoms and other characteristics such as how long you've had them and if they're becoming worse. Your medical provider will also examine your ears, nose, and throat for swelling or leakage. If your symptoms are severe, you may require prescription medications to help clear the infection.
Sinus Infection Treatment:
Acute sinusitis frequently resolves without the use of prescription medicines. Although it may take some time for your sinuses to clear, there are some things you may do to alleviate sinus pressure:
- If you wake up with a stuffy nose, start your day with a saline nasal spray to clear it. Another approach for clearing nasal congestion is to use a neti pot.
- Take a bath. Warm steam may help clear your sinuses and relieve sinus strain. You don't have time to take a shower? Wring out a hot-water-soaked washcloth and place it over your face.
- Drink plenty of fluids, including hot beverages such as lemon water or tea.
- Try nasal decongestants that are available over the counter. However, consult your healthcare provider first. They may advise you to utilize medicinal sprays only for a few days.
- Get some additional rest. Your body is fighting illness as best it can, and getting more rest than usual will assist.
Our medical providers may prescribe medications if you have acute sinusitis caused by a bacterial infection. Before prescribing antibiotics, our medical staff may take a wait-and-see approach. Acute sinusitis symptoms that last 10 days or longer may indicate a bacterial infection that requires prescription medications.
Get Sinus Infection Treatment by Visiting AFC Urgent Care Perth Amboy
If you’re experiencing sinus infection symptoms, there are many home remedies which may help lessen your symptoms while the infection clears on its own. However, if your symptoms are persistent or severe, you should seek medical attention. At AFC Urgent Care Perth Amboy, our medical professionals can prescribe antibiotics to help clear bacterial sinus infections. Don’t wait. AFC Urgent Care Preth Amboy makes it easy to get the care you need by operating with extended business hours 7 days a week and accepting most insurance plans. Walk-in today.
