Sinus Infection: Symptoms, Causes & Online Treatment Options

Having a stuffy nose, facial pain and headaches can be quite a nuisance. Some people often brush aside these symptoms, assuming it’s just a common cold. However, if the symptoms persist, it could be a case of a sinus infection. Sinusitis is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide every year.

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn what a sinus infection is, how it differs from a cold, the symptoms to look out for and how online medical care can help you heal faster.

What Is a Sinus Infection?

A sinus infection is a condition where the lining of the sinuses gets swollen or inflamed. Sinuses are small air filled cavities located behind your forehead, cheeks, eyes and nose. When these passages get blocked, mucus builds up, providing a breeding ground for germs.

Sinus infections usually follow a cold, COVID 19 or allergy flare up. When mucus is trapped in the sinuses, it becomes susceptible to infection by bacteria or viruses.

Sinus Infection vs Cold: Exploring the Major Differences

It is often difficult for many individuals to distinguish between a sinus infection vs cold. Although both conditions have similar symptoms, they are not the same.

Cold Symptoms

• Runny or stuffed nose
• Mild sore throat
• Sne
• Symptoms resolve within 5 to 7 days

Sinus Infection Symptoms

• Thick yellow or green discharge from the nose
• Facial pressure or pain
• Headache that increases when bending forward
• Symptoms lasting more than 10 days

The most noticeable variation between a sinus infection and a cold is the length and strength of the infection. A cold will get better slowly, but a sinus infection will get worse with time.

Common Symptoms of Sinus Infection

A sinus infection can lead to various symptoms, which can range from mild to severe.

Facial Pressure and Pain

Pain around the eyes, cheeks or forehead is one of the most common symptoms. This pain is exacerbated by leaning forward or lying down.

Sinus Infection Fever

A fever that accompanies a sinus infection may develop as a result of the body’s fight against the bacteria. Although a fever is not experienced by all patients, its development is an indicator of a serious infection. A fever that persists for more than two days requires a visit to the doctor.

Sinus Infection Ear Pain

Since your sinuses and ears are linked, it is no surprise that sinus infection ear pain is a common symptom. The buildup of pressure can lead to aching, fullness or popping sensations. Chronic sinus infection and ear pain is not something to be ignored.

Nasal Congestion

Nasal passages that are blocked and mucus that is thick are common symptoms of a sinus infection that make it difficult to breathe.

Is a Sinus Infection Contagious?

One of the common concerns is whether there is a contagious risk associated with a sinus infection. This depends on the cause.

The infection itself is not normally contagious. However, the virus that caused the infection may be. This is why many people wonder about the sinus infection contagious threat that may exist in the workplace or in school.

In most instances, bacterial sinus infections are not transmitted to other people. However, observing hygiene helps to reduce the contagious nature of a sinus infection caused by a viral illness.

Causes of Sinus Infection

There are several reasons that may cause a sinus infection, including:

• Untreated colds
• Seasonal or Chronic Allergies
• Smoking or air pollution
• Nasal blockages or polyps
• Immune system that is not

Knowledge of these causes can help in the prevention of repeated episodes of sinus infection.

How Long Does a Sinus Infection Last?

A mild case of a sinus infection may resolve itself in 7 to 10 days. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it could be a bacterial infection.

If the symptoms are ignored, complications such as chronic sinus issues may arise.

Sinus Infection vs Cold: When to Seek Help

But if you are still confused about the difference between a cold and a sinus infection, here is a simple guideline:

If the symptoms are alleviated within a week, then it is probably a cold.

If the symptoms continue to worsen or persist after 10 days, it is most likely that the person has a sinus infection.

Early recognition of this difference can help avoid unnecessary discomfort.

Home Remedies That May Help 

The following steps can help relieve discomfort:

• Drink warm fluids
• Use steam inhalation
• Use warm compresses
• Take a rest and drink plenty of water

Although these can help alleviate symptoms, they may not be completely effective in treating a bacterial sinus infection.

When Medical Care Is Necessary

There are times when you should see a healthcare provider if:

Symptoms persist for more than 10 days

• You feel: Sinus infection fever
• Facial edema develops
• Severe sinus infection ear pain develops
• Early treatment can prevent complications.

How MyHomeDoc Telehealth Helps with Sinus Infection Treatment

At MyHomeDoc Telehealth, we provide you with the convenience of managing your sinus issues from the comfort of your home. Our licensed healthcare professionals assess your symptoms and decide if you need treatment for your sinus infection.

With MyHomeDoc Telehealth, you can:

• Speak to a doctor online quickly
• Get treatment suggestions
• Get prescriptions when appropriate
• Avoid waiting rooms and long delays
• Telehealth can assist in preventing a sinus infection from worsening when it is evaluated early.
• Preventing Future Sinus Infections

Reduce your risk by:

• Managing allergies
• Avoiding smoke exposure
• Staying hydrated
• Practicing good hand hygiene

These practices will help protect your sinuses throughout the year.

FAQs About Sinus Infection

1. How can I determine whether I have a sinus infection or a cold?

The main difference between sinus infection and cold is the duration of the infection and facial pain. A sinus infection is longer and accompanied by facial pressure.

2. Can a sinus infection cause fever?

Yes, fever due to sinus infection can occur, especially in the case of a bacterial infection.

3. Can sinus infection be transmitted to other people?

Questions are often asked about the possibility of a contagious risk with a sinus infection. The infection is not typically contagious, although viruses can be.

4. Why does sinus infection cause ear pain?

The ear pain associated with a sinus infection occurs because of the pressure that affects the surrounding structures of the ear.

5. Can telehealth assist with the treatment of a sinus infection?

Yes. Telehealth enables doctors to evaluate symptoms, prescribe treatment and guide the recovery process for a sinus infection.

Conclusion

A sinus infection may affect your comfort, concentration and sleep. It is important to understand the symptoms of a sinus infection to recover from it easily. If your symptoms are not getting better or if you are not sure whether you have a cold or a sinus infection, MyHomeDoc Telehealth is here to help. Get expert medical care from the comfort of your own home and start breathing better today.