Sinus Infections
Nasal congestion, coughing, and a fever may indicate something more involved than the common cold. You may be dealing with a sinus infection, also known as sinusitis. Sinus infections are very common and can be separated into two main types -- acute or chronic. An acute sinus infection is one that comes on suddenly, while a chronic sinus infection lasts for a long period of time. What do you need to understand about sinus infections?
Some people seem to suffer from sinus infections more than others. Diet, health and exposure to bacteria all impact your sinus health.
When the sinus cavity become inflamed, then you have sinusitis or a sinus infection. A sinus infection is one of the most common infections that people of all ages are diagnosed with over the course of their lives. They can be caused by many different things as well, including viruses, bacteria, environmental pollens, and irritants that are in the air, which may include chemicals. Knowing how to distinguish a sinus infection from the common cold is essential to getting the medical help that you need. What are the symptoms of sinus infections?
The most common symptoms of a sinus infection include:
- Headache
- Facial pain and tenderness
- Fever
Other symptoms that may occur include:
- Discolored or cloudy nasal discharge
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Nasal stuffiness
Diagnosing a sinus infection is normally based upon your symptoms and what your doctor finds when he examines you. Your doctor will examine you, ask questions about your symptoms, and then determine whether you have a sinus infection or a simple cold and determine a treatment plan for you. What are some of the treatments that are available for sinus infections?
Treatment of the symptoms themselves is normally the first method of treatment. Treating the pain and fever with acetaminophen or Tylenol, as well as treating the congestion with a decongestant will give you some relief from your sinus infection. After a week or so, if the symptoms have not subsided, it may be necessary to get an antibiotic, as this indicates an acute sinus infection. Your physician will most likely choose a broad-spectrum antibiotic that works on a variety of bacteria that can cause a sinus infection. Take your antibiotic as directed until you have taken the full prescription to get maximum benefits; don't stop short of the full regime. Is there any way that you can protect yourself against a sinus infection?
Preventing a sinus infection will be pretty much based on the cause of your sinus infections. Some things that you can do to prevent a sinus infection includes washing your hands frequently, staying away from people who have colds, reducing stress, drinking enough water to keep the sinuses hydrated, eating healthy foods to keep your immune system strong, using a saline nasal spray to keep your nasal passages moist, and staying away from allergens that tend to aggravate your sinuses. By practicing the most basic of good health habits, you can help to prevent sinus infections in your future.
Sinus infections can be uncomfortable, but they are very rarely life threatening. Be aware of your symptoms, visit the doctor as needed, and practice good health habits so you can decrease your chance of getting a sinus infection and increase your chance of staying well.
