Sinus infections can also be caused by bacteria. When mucus pools, it becomes an ideal spot for bacteria to grow. Allergies , nasal polyps and anything that causes a s tructural blockage of the sinus cavity can cause an infection, as the narrowed pathway makes it harder for mucus to adequately drain.
None of these causes are contagious. A viral sinus infection usually resolves on its own after seven to ten days. Over-the-counter medications and at-home remedies may be used to reduce symptoms. These include:. If your symptoms last more than ten days, you are most likely dealing with a bacterial infection. Bacterial sinus infections are treated will full course of antibiotics. Sinuses are air-filled spaces inside the skull that produce a light coating of mucus, which drains through the nose.
When this happens, the mucus gets backed up and becomes trapped in the sinuses. Each of your sinuses has a different name.
You can describe a sinus infection according to which sinuses are affected. For example, if your congestion is in your frontal sinuses, you have a frontal sinus infection. The frontal sinuses are directly behind the lower forehead.
Another way to describe a sinus infection is by what kind of germ causes it. Most sinus infections are caused by viruses, just like the common cold. Viral sinus infections generally end on their own without any medical intervention.
They usually only affect the upper respiratory system, with symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, facial pressure, congestion and headache. But sometimes viral infections can turn into bacterial infections. Inflamed, blocked-off sinuses encourage the kind of moist, vulnerable environment where bacteria can thrive. You might have a bacterial sinus infection if your symptoms linger beyond about a week. If your drainage turns yellow or green, that could mean your viral infection has turned bacterial.
Lastly, even though the vast majority of sinus infections are caused by viruses and bacteria, it is possible to have a sinus infection caused by a fungus. Most fungal sinus infections are caused by an allergic reaction to a fungus in the air, like black mold. This type of infection is possible in severely immunocompromised people, such as those going through chemotherapy or with poorly controlled diabetes.
Chronic sinusitis is long-term and can reoccur. Symptoms of chronic sinusitis will last for 12 weeks or longer. Antibiotics only work for sinus infections caused by bacteria. In some cases, sinus infections can lead to other complications. Contact a doctor immediately if you have:. They may not develop a sinus infection, but they can develop a cold.
If you have a sinus infection, take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. Wash your hands regularly and sneeze and cough into your elbow instead of your hands. If possible, avoid being in crowded areas to reduce the number of people that could be exposed to the virus. Often a sinus infection can be treated with rest, home remedies, and OTC treatments, but any serious or prolonged condition should be reviewed by a medical professional.
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is a condition that occurs when your nasal passages become infected and inflamed. Learn more about sinus headaches, home remedies, and traditional treatments.
Massaging your face in a particular way may actually improve sinus pain and congestion. We talk about techniques and benefits of sinus massage. Sinus rinses are safe for most people to use. However, they must be used correctly to ensure safety. Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can be good for your sinus health.
But it's important to know what type of humidifier to use for…. COVID and sinus infections share several symptoms like nasal congestion, fever, and coughing. But there are some important differences.
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