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A sinus infection can cause many symptoms, such as facial pain and nasal congestion. Although in most cases it clears up on its own within a few weeks, in some situations it can lead to a chronic sinus infection. This may reoccur more frequently and may require treatment by a medical specialist.
What Is a Sinus Infection?
A sinus infection, commonly known as sinusitis, is when the sinus passageways become inflamed. The sinuses are small, empty spaces located behind the cheekbones and forehead in the areas around your nose and eyes, and they connect to the inside of the nose.
The nose and sinuses are filled with air and are lined with mucus membranes, which act as a filtering system. Sinusitis causes the lining of the sinuses to swell up, which can stop mucus from properly draining into the nose and throat – and can result in bacterial growth (a sinus infection).
Clogged sinuses can make it difficult to breathe through your nose and make the area around your nose, cheeks, eyes, and forehead painful and tender to the touch. Sinusitis is more common following a cold or flu, but environmental irritants, certain medical conditions, upper respiratory infections, and structural abnormalities (such as swollen mucus linings, polyps, or a deviated septum) can also contribute to sinusitis and may lead to chronic sinusitis.
18 Symptoms of Sinusitis
A sinus infection can have many symptoms, the most common of which include:
- Tenderness around the face
- Pressure or pain in the sinuses
- Ear pain
- Sinus headache
- Toothache
- Fever
- Nasal congestion
- Discolored (yellow or green) or cloudy nasal mucus/discharge
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Facial swelling and puffy eyes
- A reduced sense of smell or taste
- Bad breath
- Nausea
- Tiredness or fatigue
Symptoms in young children, which demand attention by a doctor, can also include:
- Irritability
- Difficulty feeding or reduced appetite
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
What Is Chronic Sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis generally lasts for three months or longer, and it often recurs following treatment. Symptoms are similar to those of regular sinusitis, but chronic sinusitis does not cause a fever. Instead, you may develop a sore throat, nausea, or coughing, and your ears or teeth may hurt.
In a chronic sinus infection, you may feel fatigue and have puffiness around the eyes. Bad breath and a poor sense of smell or taste are also common symptoms of chronic sinusitis.
Sinus Treatment in Chicagoland
If you suffer from repeated episodes of sinusitis, stuffiness, and headaches, talk to the specialists at Oak Brook Allergists to get the treatment and relief you need. Our allergy specialists can identify the root cause of your respiratory symptoms and make sure you get the treatment that is best suited for you.
To find out more about our services, or about how we can help if you’re suffering from recurrent sinus or breathing issues, contact the friendly staff at Oak Brook Allergists today by calling us at (630) 574-0460 or by filling out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you breathe much better.
