Common Symptoms of a Sinus Infection

Approximately 31 million people in America suffer from sinus infections each year. A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, is a painful condition that causes stuffy, painful pressure in the nasal cavity. Most cases of sinus infections will go away on their own since they are due to a virus. In rare cases, bacteria can also be responsible for causing sinusitis and will require an antibiotic for treatment.

It is often difficult for people to distinguish between a sinus infection and a cold or allergies. Knowing the symptoms of sinusitis can help those who are suffering find the best treatment.

Here are the most characteristic symptoms of a sinus infection:

• Sinus pain and pressure – Fluid trapped in the sinuses can fill the sinus cavities, causing intense pressure and pain around the eyes, cheeks, and nose. Many people also feel pressure and pain in the forehead from “sinus headaches,” often made worse by bending over.
• Congestion – Fluid trapped in the sinuses can build up and cause inflammation. A sinus infection is often accompanied by a viral or bacterial infection in the sinuses. All of this inflammation causes people to become congested and feel that they cannot breathe through their nose.
• Postnasal drip – Mucus that drips from the nose down the back of the throat is defined as postnasal drip. It can cause severe sore throat, feelings of congestion, hoarseness, and a sense of pressure in the throat or mouth.
• Coughing – Congestion from postnasal drip causes many people to cough. As the mucus drips down the back of the throat, the throat is irritated, and it can set off a coughing spell.
• Bright green or yellow mucus – Bacteria, viruses, or fungus in the mucus can cause it to change color. Many people “know” that they have a sinus infection when they cough up or blow out brightly colored mucus.
• Frequent nose blowing – Sinus infections cause a lot of mucus production. Many people with sinusitis find that they cannot clear their sinuses no matter how often they blow their nose.
• Fever – A fever is a sign that the body is fighting off an infection. Some people develop a fever, often accompanied by chills, exhaustion, and muscle aches, with a sinus infection.
• Fatigue – When the body is fighting an infection, it demands a great deal of energy from the body. Many people feel fatigued by sinusitis.

If you are suffering from any of the symptoms of a sinus infection and have not found relief from your condition, contact New York Sinusitis Treatment today.