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It’s hard to tell the difference between allergies, colds, and sinus infections. Since your treatment depends on the right diagnosis, it’s important to consult with the team at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates. Our providers have experience evaluating your symptoms and getting to the source of your problem to prescribe the best treatment. Call the nearest office in Carrollwood, South Tampa, or Brandon, Florida, today to schedule an appointment or use the online booking feature.
Sinus Infection Q&A
What causes a sinus infection?
A sinus infection, also called acute sinusitis, develops when your sinuses become inflamed and swollen. As a result, mucus becomes trapped in the sinuses, which leads to an infection. Acute sinus infections appear suddenly, then get better within four weeks.
In most cases, acute sinusitis is caused by the same virus that’s responsible for the common cold. You may be at a higher risk for getting sinus infections if you have hay fever or other allergies that affect your sinuses.
Patients with a deviated nasal septum or nasal polyps are also more susceptible to sinus infections.
What symptoms will I develop from a sinus infection?
The first symptoms of a sinus infection resemble a common cold. You’ll have classic symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, sneezing, and possibly a low-grade fever.
When a sinus infection develops, you’ll experience other symptoms, including:
- Nasal congestion
- Sinus headache
- Ear pressure
- Nasal discharge that’s thick, yellow, or greenish
- Postnasal drip (mucus running down your throat)
- Pain and pressure around your eyes, nose, cheeks, or forehead
If your symptoms improve and then suddenly get worse, or they last longer than 10 days, a bacterial infection may have developed.
You should schedule an appointment at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates when you suspect a bacterial infection or if you develop symptoms of a serious infection, such as swelling or redness around your eyes, a high fever, or changes in your vision.
How is a sinus infection treated?
The treatment for a sinus infection focuses on relieving your symptoms. Your provider may recommend a saline nasal spray to clear your nasal passageways and over-the-counter or prescription nasal sprays containing corticosteroids, decongestants, or antihistamines.
If it's suspected you have allergies, your provider goes over your medical history to identify potential allergens and may perform allergy tests. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and your test results, you may be a good candidate for allergy shots.
Most viral sinus infections heal on their own, but you should seek medical care any time you need symptom relief, or your symptoms worsen. To schedule an appointment, call Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates or use the online booking tool.