Due to the prevalence of things allergens and viruses during the fall and winter, sinus infections are much more common during this time of year.

In fact, did you know that nearly 31 million Americans deal with a sinus infection every year? Because these types of infections are common, it’s important to be informed about their common symptoms so you can know whether or not you are dealing with one. Our AFC Urgent Care Mooresville team provides further information below, so read on!

What Is a Sinus Infection?

The sinuses are air-filled spaces inside the forehead, cheekbones and behind the bridge of your nose. When they get inflamed, which is usually because of an allergic reaction or a bacterial/viral infection, they swell, make more mucus and the channels that drain them can get blocked with fluid. When a blockage occurs, it can cause a sinus infection.

We’ve listed the most common symptoms of a sinus infection below.

Common Sinus Infection Symptoms

• Postnasal drip
• Discolored nasal discharge (greenish in color)
• Nasal stuffiness or congestion
• Tenderness of the face (particularly under the eyes or at the bridge of the nose)
• Frontal headaches
• Pain in the teeth
• Coughing
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Bad breath

Who Has a Higher Risk of Getting a Sinus Infection?

We’ve listed the most common risk factors in our section below, but the risk of getting a sinus infection generally elevates during flu season and for those who chronically battle allergies.

Sinus infections are common during virus season due to many sinus infection cases being caused by viruses. Sinus infections caused by viruses are contagious, so it’s important to exercise proper hygiene like frequent hand-washing and sanitizing to lower your risk of getting sick.

Sinus Infection Risk Factors

• A previous cold
• Seasonal allergies
• Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
• Structural problems within the sinuses (such as growths on the lining of the nose or sinuses, known as nasal polyps)
• A weak immune system or taking drugs that weaken the immune system

While most sinus infections are treatable at home, don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Mooresville center if you believe you have a sinus infection. We can provide the non-emergency medical care that you need!