Sinus infections, or sinusitis, are common ailments that can make you feel terrible. The inflammation of the sinuses can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as congestion, pressure, headache, and nasal discharge. One of the most common questions people have is how long the infection lasts. In this blog, we’ll explore the typical duration of a sinus infection and when to seek medical attention.
For same-day sinus infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen. Our board-certified medical team is available 7 days a week to treat a range of conditions. Just walk-in today!
What Causes a Sinus Infection?
They are simply caused by the swelling of the sinuses. Sinuses refer to spaces located around the nose that store air and these spaces are quite delicate and can get infected. Viruses and bacteria are the major sources of this infection and they can cause it to balloon into other complications such as allergies and pneumonia. The stringency and kind of infection are what dictate the duration of infection, with bacteria infections being the most persistent.
How Long Does a Sinus Infection Last?
The duration of a sinus infection depends on its type:
- Acute Sinusitis: This is the most common type, often caused by a viral infection like a cold. Acute infections typically last for less than 4 weeks.
- Chronic Sinusitis: Chronic sinusitis is a long-lasting condition, typically lasting more than 12 weeks. This type of sinus infection is often caused by bacteria or allergies and may require longer treatment.
- Subacute Sinusitis: This is a sinus infection that falls between acute and chronic, usually lasting between 4 and 12 weeks.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
- Runny and congested nose
- Severe post-nasal drainage
- Sinus pressure and pain
- Toothache
- Irritation
- Sore throat
- Bad breath
- Discolored mucus
- Fatigue
How To Treat Sinus Infections
1. Take A Warm Bath: One secret to speeding up your recovery is to try taking a warm or mildly hot bath regularly. The steam will warm up the body, and create a hostile environment for the infectious organisms. That’s not all, this steam also helps soothe the sinus and loosen the trapped mucus.
2. Hydrate Regularly: Water and electrolytes give the body the required energy to fight off infections. They also aid in recovery from these infections. This is the reason why a well-hydrated person will be well-equipped to fight off any infections that may happen.
3. Utilize Nasal Decongestants: By using decongestants, you help relieve the blocked nose by hindering mucus production, allowing your body to simply eject any blockage with ease. This reduces the risk of continuous swelling caused by mucus and prevents chronic sinusitis from occurring allowing you to quickly recover from sinus infection.
4. Try Using Antiviral and Antibiotics.: Bacteria and viruses are some of the major infectants of sinuses. By using antivirals or antibiotics, you go for the source directly. One must take the prescribed dosage of antibiotics to the end in order to guarantee maximum effectiveness. Additionally, these antibiotics won't work for illnesses brought on by viruses.
5. Use Steam Inhalation Therapy: Steam inhalation is another simple way you can easily relieve sinus pressure and get rid of sinus infections. This often involves heating some water and then inhaling the steam, allowing it to enter your nasal passage and loosen the mucus responsible for the inflammation. Steam inhalation is also very effective because it helps soothe inflammation and reduce sinus pain.
Get Walk-in Sinus Infection Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen
A sinus infection typically lasts anywhere from 7 to 10 days, depending on the type and severity. If your symptoms last longer than expected or worsen, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen, we can help you identify the cause of your sinus symptoms and provide the care you need to feel better quickly. Don’t let sinusitis drag on– come see us for effective treatment and support! Our medical team is here seven days a week to support your health and well-being. Appointments are not required– just stop by at your convenience. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sinus infection treatment, or the other services we provide, please contact our medical office directly at (732) 583-5100.
