Many of us have had a sinus infection before. While these types of infections aren’t pleasant, they’re highly treatable and don’t usually last very long.

Sinus infections are typically accompanied by thick mucus in the nose, but they can often be accompanied by painful headaches, too. Our AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga team further elaborates on what to expect with sinus infections below, so keep reading!

What Is a Sinus Infection?

According to the CDC, sinus infections (medically known as sinusitis) happen when fluid builds up in the body’s sinuses, which, in turn, allows germs to grow and cause an infection. Viruses cause most sinus infections, but bacteria can cause some sinus infections as well.

We’ve listed the most common types of symptoms you will experience with a sinus infection below.

Common Sinus Infection Symptoms

• Thick, yellow or greenish mucus from the nose (runny nose) or down the back of the throat (postnasal drainage)
• Blocked or stuffy nose that causes difficulty breathing through the nose
• Pain, tenderness, swelling and pressure around the eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead that worsens when bending over

Is a Headache a Common Sinus Infection Symptom?

Yes, it can be. When your sinuses are filled with fluid, it can cause pressure and pain in the face. Typically, pain gets worse when you move your head suddenly. Depending on the sinus affected, you may feel a constant dull ache behind the eyes or in your cheekbones, forehead and/or bridge of the nose.

Sinus headaches can sometimes be confused with migraines since both are quite painful, but with a migraine, nasal discharge is clear. If you have a real sinus headache that is caused by a sinus infection, you’ll also typically have a fever and thick, discolored nasal mucus.

Typical Sinus Headache Symptoms

• Fever
• Stuffy nose
• Thick, colored mucus discharge from the nose
• Feeling of fullness in the ears
• Swollen or puffy face

Most sinus infections can be treated at home, but if you feel like you need medical attention, don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga center today!