A sinus infection, or sinusitis, happens when the sinuses become inflamed and infected. They can cause a variety of painful symptoms. There are various factors that can lead to a sinus infection including viral infections, bacterial infections, allergies, or structural issues in the nasal passages. Sinus infections can range in severity and may require medical treatment to clear up. Keep reading to learn more about what causes a sinus infection and treatment options available for sinus infections. For same-day illness symptom treatment, walk into AFC North Bergen! Our walk-in clinic is open 7 days a week and offers patients in North Bergen, NJ with rapid illness care on a walk-in basis.
What Causes Sinus Infection?
A sinus infection occurs when the tissue lining the sinuses becomes inflamed, leading to discomfort and congestion. Your sinuses are a group of passages that connect your airways. Your sinuses naturally produce mucus to keep your airway moist and flush out potential illness-causing pathogens. However, when your sinuses become clogged with mucus they can become infected. The most common factors that lead to sinus infections include viral infections, such as the common cold, which can lead to congestion. Congestion blocks sinus drainage and traps mucus within your sinuses.
Allergies to substances like pollen, dust, or mold can also trigger sinus inflammation which can also cause congestion and lead to excess mucus production. Likewise, structural issues, such as nasal polyps or a deviated septum, can restrict airflow and increase the risk of developing a sinus infection.
Signs and Symptoms of Sinus Infection
Sinus infections often go unnoticed at first because they can start as a mild illness. However, once an infection occurs within the sinuses, your symptoms will likely worsen rapidly over time. Common symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure around the eyes, cheeks, or forehead, and a thick nasal discharge. Other symptoms often include headaches, a reduced or lost sense of smell and taste, and postnasal drip, where mucus drips down the back of the throat. Some individuals may also experience fever, fatigue, a sore throat, or bad breath (halitosis).
Sinus Infection Treatment
Sinus infections can vary greatly in severity. If you think you may have a sinus infection, seeking medical treatment early will allow you to begin treatment earlier which can reduce your recovery time. Sinus infections can clear up on their own, however, treatment with medications such as antibiotics can help the infection clear up faster.
Using over-the-counter decongestants and taking hot showers to break up the mucus can help reduce the chances of developing an infection in your sinuses and can help clear up an infection. You should seek medical treatment if your symptoms persist for more than 10 days.
Walk Into AFC North Bergen for Same-Day Illness Treatment
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a sinus infection, AFC North Bergen can help. Our team of dedicated medical providers is trained to recognize the symptoms of a sinus infection. Based on your symptoms, your medical provider may perform diagnostic testing during your visit using our on-site lab. Sinus infections can be uncomfortable, so your medical provider will suggest ways you can alleviate your symptoms while you’re healing. Our walk-in clinic is open 7 days a week, making us a convenient option for rapid illness care. Simply walk into the clinic. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable rates for our care. Walk-in today!
