As winter progresses and you battle colds, congestion and allergy symptoms, you become more vulnerable to a sinus infection. A sinus infection forms after fluid is trapped in the sinuses, air pockets located behind your eyes and around your nasal cavity, often after you are done with a cold or allergic reaction.
Types of Sinus Infections
There are two main types of sinus infections: acute and chronic. Determining which type you have will determine treatment.
- Acute sinusitis lasts less than four weeks and stems directly from a respiratory illness, typically a cold or cough that results in congestion.
- Chronic sinusitis occurs when an infection lasts for over eight weeks or you experience more than four sinus infections per year.
Symptoms of a Sinus Infection
A sinus infection can exhibit some or all of the following symptoms:
- Runny or stuffed nose
- Headache
- Fever
- Pressure or pain on the face
- Postnasal drip
- Exhaustion
- Loss of smell
Treating a Sinus Infection
Treatment options vary based on how much the infection has progressed and your age. If your sinuses are being clogged by a bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics in order to fight it. If it is a weaker infection, your doctor will suggest using either decongestants, ibuprofen, nasal sprays, vaporizers and humidifiers to reduce swelling and pain.
Sinus Infection Diagnosis & Treatment in Aberdeen, NJ
If you are exhibiting symptoms of a sinus infection, visit AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen for walk-in diagnosis and treatment. Open extended hours seven days a week, our providers will be able to get you the care you need to get back on your feet in no time! For questions, please call 732-583-5100.