What are the symptoms of a sinus infection?

08/30/2024

Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, occur when the tissue lining the sinuses becomes inflamed or swollen. It affects 11.6% of adults in the United States alone and accounts for 2.7 million visits to physician offices. Sinus infections can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. Continue reading to explore the common symptoms of a sinus infection, helping you identify whether you might need to seek medical attention.

What causes Sinus Infections?

Sinusitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, allergies, or even environmental irritants. It can be acute (lasting a few weeks) or chronic (lasting several months). Recognizing the symptoms early can help you manage the condition effectively.

Common Symptoms of a Sinus Infection

Facial Pain or Pressure

The key symptom of a sinus infection is experiencing pain or pressure in the face, particularly around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead. This discomfort typically intensifies when you bend over or lie down.

Nasal Congestion

Sinus infections typically cause nasal congestion and difficulty breathing through your nose. This blockage can also lead to a reduced sense of smell and taste.

Thick Nasal Discharge

You may notice thick, yellow or green nasal discharge. In some cases, this discharge can drain down the back of your throat, leading to further discomfort.

Cough

A persistent cough can occur due to post-nasal drip, where mucus drips from your sinuses into your throat. This can be particularly bothersome at night, affecting your sleep.

Headaches

Sinus pressure can lead to headaches that range from mild to severe. These headaches often feel different from tension or migraine headaches and may improve with decongestants.

Fever

In some cases, a sinus infection can cause a low-grade fever. If your fever is high or persists for several days, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional.

Bad Breath

Sinus infections can contribute to halitosis (bad breath) due to stagnant mucus and bacteria in the nasal passages.

Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired or fatigued is common during a sinus infection, as your body works to fight off the infection.

When to See an Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor?

While many sinus infections can resolve on their own, it’s important to see an ENT specialist when you have recurrent sinus infections or when your symptoms fail to resolve with typical medical therapy.

If you have recurrent or ongoing sinusitis, schedule an appointment with Coastal Ear, Nose, and Throat by calling our office at 732-280-7855. At Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat, our dedicated team of highly skilled doctors is here to address your health concerns and provide you with the care you deserve. We have multiple locations across New Jersey, including Neptune, Manahawkin, and Holmdel.

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