A Sinus Infection Or A Cold?
While it’s never good to self-diagnose, when you come down with something, you may want to know what you have and how to treat it. Do you have a simple cold that will go away in a few days or is it something more serious? Your cold could start out simple, then move into the sinuses and become infected. It’s good to recognize the symptoms so you know when to get help and when to wait and let it heal on its own.
What Is Sinusitis?
A sinus infection occurs when the nasal cavities become infected, inflamed, and swollen. It is usually caused by a virus that persists and settles into the sinuses even after your other respiratory symptoms pass. Bacteria and fungus can also cause an infection in the sinuses, as well as other conditions like allergies, which can also contribute to your pain and symptoms in that area.
Types Of Sinus Infections
Acute sinusitis lasts for a short time—less than four weeks. These infections are usually part of a cold or another illness that settles into the sinuses and becomes infected. Chronic sinus infections, however, last for twelve weeks or longer or may occur over and over again. Many of the symptoms of a sinus infection are similar, even if you don’t know if it’s acute or chronic. See your doctor to find out if you have an infection, but in the meantime, watch for these signs.
-Sinus Pain
The most common symptom of a sinus infection is pain in the sinuses. There are sinuses behind your nose, as well as above and below your eyes. Any of these areas can hurt when they are infected. The swelling in those areas can cause a dull ache or pressure. You might also feel pain in the forehead, jaws, and teeth or between your eyes. Some also have a headache as a symptom.
-Nasal Discharge
When you have a sinus infection, you will probably blow your nose often and the nasal discharge will be green, yellow, or cloudy. The discharge comes from the infection and drains into the nasal passage. You might also have a sore throat as the discharge can bypass your nose and drain down your throat.
-Nasal Congestion
Inflamed sinuses can also prevent you from breathing through your nose. The swelling occurs in the sinuses, as well as the nasal passages. You may not be able to taste or smell and your voice might sound like you are stuffed up.
When To See A Doctor For a Sinus Infection
If you have one or more of the symptoms of a sinus infection and you also have a fever or other pain, you will want to see a doctor. The professionals at Breathe Clear Institute want to help you clear up any infections as quickly as possible so you can go on with your everyday life in a comfortable, healthy manner. If you have infections often, let’s get to the bottom of the situation and work out a solution.