The common cold has a lot of common telltale signs including a sore throat, stuffy nose, coughing, and sneezing.  In most cases, a cold last 2-3 days, and symptoms start to improve naturally.  If that isn’t the case with you, a sinusitis could be the reason.

If symptoms like thick nasal discharge and facial pressure (think face mask) seem to be getting worse after a few days instead of better.  Then it would be wise to have a Care Station Provider evaluate you to determine if things have turned into a Sinus Infection.

If you didn’t know, the sinuses are actually cavities around your nose that are filled with air. They are also around your forehead, your cheeks, and your eyes. If you have clear sinuses, mucus can easily drain away from your nose and keep out dirt and bacteria.

But when mucus becomes trapped in your sinuses, it allows viruses, bacteria, and fungi to grow very easily. This plugs your sinuses and causes any number of symptoms.

Acute vs Chronic Sinus Infections

Knowing the difference between the two can lead to better treatment plans.

Acute sinusitis generally last less than 4 weeks and stems from a cold or illness.  It can usually be effectively treated with medicine.

Chronic sinusitis can last up to 8 weeks, or happen frequently throughout the year.

Treatment plans differ depending on the severity of the infection.  Managing discomfort with either home remedies, over-the-counter medicine, or antibiotics should be determined after having an evaluation with a Care Station Medical Provider.

Steam is also among the recommended medical treatments for sinus infections. Studies haven’t determined if it is as effective as medications and some other methods, but it can help relieve your symptoms. If you’re feeling bad due to a sinus infection, you can turn on a nice hot shower, get in, and inhale steam to relieve your sinus symptoms.

Believe it or not, for all the medical treatments that are available, one of your best bets for sinus infections is simple: get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids. Rest can allow your body to recover and use energy to fight the infection. Hydration will help loosen mucus build-up and clear congestion, whether you’re drinking tea, broth, or just plain water.

If you’re feeling really under the weather, visit your local urgent care. The doctors at a walk-in clinic can help recommend methods and medications to relieve your symptoms and make the sinus infection go away faster.