8 Signs You May Have a Sinus Infection
If you’ve been feeling under the weather with a stuffy nose and facial pressure, chances are you might be dealing with a sinus infection. According to the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, is a common ailment affecting millions of people every year. Americans annually spend over $1 billion on over-the-counter medications to treat it. Keep reading to find out the signs and symptoms of a sinus infection, which can help you seek treatment quickly and feel better sooner.
What are Sinuses?
Before we talk about how to spot the signs of a sinus infection, let’s get a quick reminder of what our sinuses are. Sinuses are hollow, air-filled spaces in your skull located behind your eyes, nose, forehead, and cheeks. They produce thin mucus that drains into your nasal passages. Usually, this mucus helps moisten the inside of your nose and protect it from pollutants and unwanted particles.
What is Sinusitis?
When these sinuses become inflamed or infected, it is called sinusitis. This inflammation can occur for a number of reasons, including:
- Viral Infections (Common Cold): Most sinus infections are caused by viruses, often stemming from a common cold.
- Bacterial Infections: Although less common than viral infections, sometimes bacteria can cause a sinus infection.
- Allergies: Allergies can trigger inflammation in the sinuses, increasing the risk of sinus infection.
- Other Conditions: Conditions such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps can also make sinuses more prone to infection.
Signs of a Sinus Infection
Now let’s get into how to spot the tell-tale signs of a sinus infection:
1. Nasal Congestion and Discharge
One of the most common hallmarks of a sinus infection is nasal congestion or stuffiness. The inflamed sinus lining hinders the normal flow of mucus, thus making it difficult to breathe through your nose. You might also experience thick yellow or green nasal discharge.
2. Facial Pain or Pressure
When your sinuses are blocked with mucus, it can exert pressure on the surrounding area, leading to a feeling of pain or tenderness. This is often felt around your eyes, cheeks, nose, or forehead. You might experience worsened pain when bending forward or first thing in the morning.
3. Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip occurs when excess mucus buildup drains down the back of your throat. This can give you a persistent cough or throat irritation.
4. Loss of Smell or Taste
Sinus inflammation can reduce your sense of smell (hyposmia) or even lead to a complete loss of smell (anosmia). Since your sense of smell is intricately connected to your sense of taste, this can make your food taste bland or different.
5. Fatigue
Your body is battling an infection, and this can make you feel tired and run down. If general fatigue is accompanied by other signs listed here, it’s more likely an indicator of a sinus infection. Additionally, discomfort and difficulty sleeping due to other symptoms like pain and congestion can further increase your tiredness.
6. Fever
While not everyone with a sinus infection experiences a fever, a persistent low-grade fever can be a sign your body is working hard to fight the infection.
7. Bad Breath
Postnasal drip and the buildup of infected sinus mucus can cause bad breath (halitosis).
8. Headaches
Sinus infections can trigger severe headaches. The pressure buildup in your sinuses can lead to discomfort in various parts of your head, including your forehead, the back of your neck, or even your teeth. These headaches often worsen in the morning or when you change positions quickly.
When to See a Doctor
While many mild sinus infections resolve on their own, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor if:
- Your symptoms persist for more than 10 days without improvement.
- Your symptoms are severe or are accompanied by a high fever.
- You notice swelling or redness around your eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I know if it’s a cold or a sinus infection?
Common colds and sinus infections share some of the same symptoms, but sinus infections tend to last longer and may cause more pronounced facial pain.
2. Can sinus infections clear up on their own?
Yes, in many cases, mild sinus infections can resolve without treatment. Your body’s immune system can clear the infection, but it’s essential to monitor your symptoms. If they worsen or don’t improve within a week or two, seeking medical advice is crucial.
3. How can I relieve sinus infection symptoms at home?
You can alleviate symptoms by staying hydrated, applying warm compresses to your face, using saline nasal sprays or rinses, and using a humidifier. These can help reduce nasal congestion and relieve pressure and pain.
3. Can I prevent sinus infections?
While not foolproof, there are things you can do to lower your risk of sinus infections. These include good handwashing hygiene, managing allergies, staying hydrated, and avoiding cigarette smoke.
