Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, are a common condition affecting millions of people each year. Characterized by inflammation of the sinus cavities, sinus infections can cause a range of symptoms– including congestion, facial pressure, and nasal discharge. But what about a fever? Is it normal to experience a fever when dealing with a sinus infection? In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between fever and sinus infections and tips to alleviate your symptoms.
For same-day sinus infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek. Our board-ceritified medical team can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and plan the best treatment. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
What Causes a Sinus Infection?
Sinus infections can be caused by a variety of factors including:
- Viruses: Like many other respiratory conditions, most cases of sinusitis are often caused by viruses– especially those responsible for the common cold. Viral sinusitis can cause fevers and they often last between 5 to 7 days after exposure. Influenza viruses can also lead to sinus infections.
- Bacteria: In some cases, a sinus infection develops from bacteria that multiply when the sinuses are blocked. Bacterial sinusitis may last up to 10 days and may require antibiotics.
- Allergies: Allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander can also trigger sinus inflammation. Allergic reactions cause the sinuses to swell, trapping mucus and increasing the risk of infection.
Symptoms of a Sinus Infection.
Heavy Nasal Congestion and Discharge.
Sinusitis often manifests in the form of a stuffy nose or a thick yellow or green nasal discharge. This discharge is a result of the body’s immune system's response to invading pathogens in your respiratory system. To fight these pathogens, your immune system singals your body to secrete more mucus so that the invading pathogens can be trapped before they further infiltrate the inflamed airway.
Facial Pain and Sinus Pressure
Sinus infections often cause pain and pressure around the forehead, eyes, cheeks, and bridge of the nose and this discomfort may even worsen when bending over or lying down. This comes about as a direct result of the infection which causes the sinuses to become inflamed and the nasal passages to become filled with puss and mucus. It manifests as a pressure on the face, particularly the forehead, around the eyes, the cheekbones, and the jaw.
Headache
The pain and pressure from the inflamed sinuses can end up leading to a headache, which tends to feel more intense around the forehead and eyes.
Persistent Coughing with Mucus Discharge
Sinus infections can lead to postnasal drip, where mucus runs down the back of the throat, irritating it and increasing the body’s cough sensitivity which then leads to a persistent and lingering cough.
Why Does A Sinus Infection Cause Fever?
A fever is not uncommon with sinus infections, especially if the infection is bacterial. Fever is a protective response to an infection. When pathogenic bacteria or viruses infiltrate, the body fights back by inducing hyperthermia which hinders the reproduction of viruses and bacteria. Bacterial sinusitis will usually be accompanied by a fever while it is less common with viral sinusitis though both can produce low-grade fever.
While mild fevers are not unusual during sinusitis, certain signs may indicate the need for medical care. This includes a fever higher than 102°F, a fever lasting more than three days, and severe or persistent symptoms that last longer than a week without improvement.
Tips For Managing a Fever With a Sinus Infection
If your sinus infection is accompanied by a fever, there are a few steps you can take to feel better:
- Plenty of rest and fluids to help your body recover faster
- Over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and alleviate discomfort
- The use of steam inhalation to relieve nasal congestion and reduce pressure
- Using saline solution for washing the sinuses and promoting drainage
Get Walk-In Sinus Infection Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek
If your sinus infections persist or worsen, visiting an urgent care center is a good idea. A healthcare provider can determine if your sinus infection is viral or bacterial and recommend the appropriate treatment. While it’s not always normal to have a fever with sinusitis, it can happen. Understanding the difference between mild symptoms and signs that require medical care is essential for proper treatment and recovery. If you’re feeling under the weather, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Cherry Creek for a same-day diagnosis and treatment plan!
Our center is conveniently located at 760 S. Colorado Blvd. in Glendale, CO– just walk-in today! 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 other services we provide, please contact our team directly at (303) 692-8000.
