The sinuses are very delicate cavities that help drain mucus from the nose and any infection there can mean big trouble. Sinus infections cause inflammation, causing pain and congestion. These are obvious symptoms anyone can observe, but what are some other early symptoms of sinusitis? Let's find out about how you can spot early warning signs of sinus infection. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a sinus infection, AFC Urgent Care Back Bay is here to help. Our incredible team of board-certified medical providers are trained to expertly diagnose and treat sinus infections. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient!

About Sinus Infections

Sinusitis, also called sinus infections, comes in various forms and can be categorized in two major ways: acute or chronic. Sinus infections can begin as a viral or bacterial infection, however, the actual infection within the sinuses occurs due to a build-up of mucus, which causes bacterial growth within the sinus cavities. In most cases, mild illnesses like a cold will cause congestion. Without proper care, congestion can turn into a sinus infection over time.

Causes of Sinus Infections

Sinus infections can start as the result of a mild illness. Even mild illnesses can cause infections that inflame or put pressure on the sinuses, leading to a blockage within the sinuses. Without proper care, this blockage will begin to grow bacteria and lead to a sinus infection.

Another common way that sinus infections form is due to seasonal allergies. Fungi like mildew and various pollens, are known to cause sinus swelling and congestion which can turn into sinus infections. Allergies can cause repetitive sinus infections if you do not treat the underlying cause of your symptoms. Physiological structures such as nasal polyps and deviated septums are also responsible for inducing recurrent sinus infections in some cases.

Symptoms of Sinus Infections

Sinus infections often begin on the tail end of another illness. It is important to monitor your symptoms for signs of severe symptoms, or your symptoms worsening over time. These behaviors could indicate the start of a sinus infection. Sinus infection symptoms can be long-lasting, sometimes lasting over 3 weeks, and usually require treatment to clear up, which is why being able to identify the symptoms of a sinus infection early is helpful. Common symptoms include:

• Sinus pressure and pain
• Bad breath
• Runny Nose
• Chills
• Fever
• Post-nasal drip
• Headaches
• Ear pressure and pain
• Pain in the jaw

How To Treat Sinus Infections

Sinus infections are bacterial infections. As a result, they require care from a medical professional. Bacterial infections often are treated with a course of antibiotics to clear up the infection that is occurring deep within the sinuses. It is important to seek care as soon as you notice symptoms of a sinus infection to prevent severe symptoms from occurring. Sinus infections often begin on the tail end of other mild illnesses, so always be careful to monitor your symptoms for signs of them worsening over time.

Visit AFC Back Bay for Sinus Infection Treatment in Boston, MA

Sinus infections require medical treatment. If you’re experiencing worsening illness symptoms or any of the mentioned symptoms associated with sinus infections, you should seek urgent medical care. At AFC Urgent Care Back Bay, our board-certified medical providers are available 7 days a week to provide patients near Boston, MA with rapid sinus infection diagnosis and treatment. We never require you to schedule an appointment, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you - we’re open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm!