Sinus infections can be painful, and take you out of commission from your daily routine. A sinus infection is occurring when the nasal cavities, and areas around them, are filled with mucus and become infected and inflamed. Sinus infections can last for days or weeks, depending on the severity. If left untreated, it is possible that it will grow into acute sinusitis, a more serious infection that can last for over a month. Sinus infections are typically caused by a cold or allergies, and can clear on their own at times, but may require treatment from a medical professional. Dr. Madison Richardson offers treatment for sinus infection in his Beverly Hills office. The best treatment for sinus infection is going to be prescribed and includes possible antibiotics, nasal rinse, and of course rest. If you believe you have a sinus infection, schedule your appointment with Dr. Madison Richardson, and get your sinus infection treatment today from our experienced sinus infection doctor.
Sinus Infection Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
What is a sinus infection?
There are bones inside of your nose that are surrounded by hollow spaces, known as sinuses. When your sinuses are healthy and functioning properly, the mucus drains through your nose. When your sinuses are not functioning properly, they swell and become infected which in turn blocks the passageways with mucus, and they aren’t able to drain.
Typical sinus infection symptoms to look out for
A very common symptom experienced by a majority of people suffering from sinus infections is a postnasal drip from mucus blocking the sinuses. When mucus in the nose is draining and collecting in your throat, it is typically the most concentrated when you are laying down. This mucus blockage and concentration can cause other symptoms such as discomfort accompanied by unmanageable coughing, as well as:
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Pressure or headache in and around sinuses
- Weakness
- Facial Swelling
- Toothache
- Earache
- Fatigue
- Fever (sometimes in children)
For symptoms that are unresponsive to over-the-counter pain and cold medicines, or are lasting for longer than a week it is essential that you see a medical professional such as Dr. Madison Richardson. Sinus infection treatment options can be prescribed by Dr. Richardson, and help you get over your sinus infection symptoms.
Are sinus infections a long-term illness?
Sinus infections may be an illness that lasts longer than other colds, in many cases last four to twelve weeks with symptoms. Some people experience sinus infections that last for long periods of time, and occur many times in one year, these are known as chronic sinus infections.
What is the cause of sinus infections?
The number one source of a sinus infection is a common cold leading to an overgrowth of bacteria in the sinuses, causing a bacterial infection. Although this cause is common, another reason for a sinus infection is anything blocking the sinuses and preventing their drainage, including general mucus block up. There are more situations that lead to sinus infections including:
- Hay fever
- Allergies
- Dehydration
- Over-the-counter nasal sprays
How can you diagnose and treat sinusitis?
Dr. Richardson examines your sinuses, face, and nose and talks to you about your current symptoms to get the full diagnosis of whether your sinuses are infected or not. In some instances, images of the sinuses may be necessary to evaluate the inflammation and reach a diagnosis of a sinus infection. The key treatments to curing a majority of sinus infections are over-the-counter medications for congestion and pain, rest, nasal irrigation, and fluids. In the chance that your sinus infection isn’t responding to these treatment methods, and is at that point a bacterial infection, Dr. Richardson will then likely prescribe antibiotics.
Are sinus infections preventable?
There are several steps you can take to help prevent sinus infections, including It is possible to prevent getting a sinus infection with these steps:
- Manage allergies
- Hand washing regularly
- Saline nasal irrigation
- Drink enough water
- Keep your immune system healthy
- Avoid smoke, aerosols, scented products, and other nasal irritants
If you are experiencing the symptoms of a sinus infection and all of these recommendations and practices have failed, be sure to contact Dr. Richardson online or over the phone to schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
