Everything you need to know about sinus infections.
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinus tissue. It is usually caused by a cold, but it can also be caused by a virus, bacteria, fungus, or allergy.
Symptoms of a sinus infection include:
- Postnasal drip;
- Runny nose;
- Nasal congestion;
- Pressure or tightness in the face;
- Toothache;
- Ear pain or pressure;
- Fever;
- Bad breath;
- Cough;
- Headache;
- Fatigue.
People at risk for sinusitis include those with a history of:
- Nasal allergies;
- Asthma;
- Nasal polyps;
- A weakened immune system;
- Smoking;
- Deviated nasal septum.
Sinusitis itself is not contagious, but the virus or bacteria that cause it are.
Sinusitis does not always require treatment and often resolves on its own.
In rare clinical cases, a sinus infection can become life-threatening—this is when bacteria or fungi spread to the brain, eye, or nearby bone.
A doctor diagnoses sinusitis based on symptoms and the patient's health history.
Several treatment options are available. Depending on the symptoms and the duration of the infection, the appropriate type of medication (antibiotics, oral or topical decongestants, intranasal steroid sprays, antihistamines, etc.) is prescribed.
Source:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17701-sinusitis
