Sinusitis. Do I have a sinus infection?

My sinuses are really bothering me, do I have a sinus infection?

Weather changes can bring that all to familiar runny/congested nose, watery/red eyes and scratchy throat. But is it a dreaded sinus infection starting? Before we answer that, let’s clear up some common confusion.

Many people use the terms "sinusitis" and "sinus infection" interchangeably, but they're not exactly the same thing. Sinusitis is simply the inflammation of the sinuses. This can be caused by viruses (like the common cold), seasonal allergies, or, less commonly, bacteria. When bacteria is the cause of your sinusitis, that's what we typically call a sinus infection.

What are sinuses, and how do they get infected?

Your sinuses are air-filled spaces in your skull. When they're healthy, they’re clean and clear, and the mucus is able to drain easily into your nose. But sometimes, these passages can get blocked with a buildup of too much mucus, often as a result of a cold or allergies. This blockage creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, leading to an acute bacterial sinusitis, or what we know as a sinus infection.

Signs and symptoms

A sinus infection typically follows a cold or seasonal allergies that have gotten worse or haven't improved after 7 to 10 days. Here are some key symptoms to look out for:

• Loss of smell
• Cough, often worse at night
• Fatigue and a general feeling of being ill
• Fever
• Headache
• Pressure-like pain, pain behind the eyes, toothache or tenderness of the face
• Nasal stuffiness and discharge
• Sore throat and postnasal drip
• Apply a warm, moist washcloth to your face several times a day
• Drink plenty of fluids to thin the mucus
• Inhale steam from a shower 2-4 times per day
• Spray with normal saline several times per day
• Use a humidifier at night
• Use a Neti pot daily to rinse the sinuses

What can I do at home to help my symptoms?

Most of the time, antibiotics are not needed for sinusitis. Most infections resolve on their own. However, if you develop a fever above 102.2°F, a headache, or facial pain, or severe swelling in the eyes, you should see a healthcare provider.

Can I prevent a sinus infection?

Taking a few proactive steps can help you reduce your risk of developing a sinus infection:

• Control your allergies if you have them
• Get an influenza vaccine each year
• Reduce stress
• Wash your hands often, particularly after shaking hands with others
• Avoid smoke and pollutants
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Use a humidifier to increase moisture in your nose and sinuses

When Should You See a Doctor?

Most sinus infections don't need antibiotics. However, it's important to see a healthcare provider if you have a fever above 102.2°F, a severe headache, intense facial pain, or swelling around your eyes. These could be signs of a more serious condition.

You can make an appointment with your primary care provider or visit Firelands Urgent Care in Clyde or Sandusky.