A number of symptoms are associated with sinus infections, although they can vary, depending on the type of infection. Sinus infections are classified as acute, meaning that they appeared suddenly, or chronic, indicating a long term problem, and they are further divided by region. In all cases, it is a good idea to seek medical treatment for a sinus infection, as the condition can get quite painful and potentially be dangerous if it is allowed to progress too far. A doctor can diagnose the infection and provide appropriate medication.
You may also hear a sinus infection referred to as “sinusitis.” One form of sinus infection is the ethmoid, located behind the eyes. It is also possible to get a maxillary infection, which attacks the sinuses behind the cheeks. Frontal sinusitis occurs behind the forehead, while sphenoid sinusitis is headquartered behind the eyes and in the upper part of the head. All of these conditions can be caused by a number of things, including fungal or bacterial infection or a cold which blocks the sinuses, preventing them from draining and allowing infection to set in.
One of the most tell-tale symptoms of a sinus infection is a pressure around the head, usually in the area where the infection is located. This pressure can feel quite intense, and it is often accompanied with soreness and puffiness, indicating that the body is irritated by the infection. Many people experience headaches when they get a sinus infection, along with fevers and a general feeling of being run down. Ear aches are not uncommon as well.
It is also possible to see a distinctive discharge of mucus, which may be slightly off color due to the infection. If sinusitis is attacking the region around the eyes, the sinus infection may declare itself with a runny discharge from the tear ducts. Some people also get coughs, and the sinus infection generally leads to congestion, as the sinuses cannot drain properly.
Depending on how far along the sinus infection is, there are a number of treatment options. Many doctors start with an anti-inflammatory drug, to see if it brings the infection down, and antibiotics can be used as well. Some patients use nasal sprays and neti pots, or try steaming their heads over a bowl of hot water and under a towel to try and get their sinuses to open up. People may also be encouraged to get to the cause, especially if it is allergies, to prevent a recurrence of the sinus infection.