Sinus infections can cause various symptoms depending on the type of infection, including pressure, pain, swelling, mucus discharge, and congestion. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and home remedies like nasal sprays and steaming. Seeking medical treatment is recommended to prevent the infection from becoming dangerous.
A number of symptoms are associated with sinus infections, although they can vary depending on the type of infection. Sinus infections are classified as either acute, meaning they appeared suddenly, or chronic, indicating a long-term problem, and are further broken down by region. In all cases, it’s a good idea to seek medical treatment for a sinus infection, as the condition can become quite painful and potentially dangerous if allowed to progress too far. A doctor can diagnose the infection and provide appropriate medications.
You may also hear about a sinus infection referred to as “sinusitis”. One form of sinus infection is the ethmoid, which is located behind the eyes. It’s also possible to get a jaw infection, which attacks the sinuses behind the cheeks. Frontal sinusitis occurs behind the forehead, while sphenoid sinusitis occurs behind the eyes and on the top of the head. All of these conditions can be caused by a number of factors, including a fungal or bacterial infection or a cold blocking the sinuses, preventing them from draining and allowing the infection to set in.
One of the most telltale symptoms of a sinus infection is pressure around the head, usually in the area where the infection is located. This pressure can feel quite intense and is often accompanied by pain and swelling, indicating that the body is irritated by the infection. Many people experience headaches when they have a sinus infection, along with a fever and a general feeling of exhaustion. Ear pains are also not uncommon.
You may also see a characteristic mucus discharge, which may be slightly discolored due to the infection. If sinusitis is attacking the region around the eyes, the sinus infection may show itself as a leaky discharge from the tear ducts. Some people also have a cough, and sinus infection generally leads to congestion, as the sinuses cannot drain properly.
Depending on how long the sinus infection has been going on, there are a number of treatment options. Many doctors start with an anti-inflammatory drug, to see if it reduces the infection, and antibiotics may also be used. Some patients use nasal sprays and neti pots, or try steaming their heads over a bowl of hot water and under a towel to try to get their sinuses to open. People may also be encouraged to get to the cause, especially if it is allergies, to prevent the sinus infection from recurring.
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