Provided By: Patrick Bockenstedt, MD
ENT
Sinus infections are the result of inflammation within the nose and sinus cavities that lead to obstruction of the sinus drainage pathways. This inflammation, known as sinusitis, is most commonly the result of viral infections or increased exposures to allergens and environmental irritants. Ultimately, the resulting nasal congestion and increased mucus produced in response to these exposures can overwhelm the sinuses’ ability to drain and allow for overgrowth of bacteria living in the sinus cavities.
Signs of a sinus infection include nasal congestion, increased drainage/mucus production, and significant sinus pain/pressure around the eyes or forehead. A typical viral infection should run its course in about 10 days and does not need antibiotics for resolution. Signs of an acute bacterial sinus infection include ongoing symptoms with no improvement after 10-14 days or a sudden increase in symptom severity 5-7 days after the illness started.
Acute bacterial sinusitis should last less than 4 weeks and often requires treatment with antibiotics for resolution, but sometimes the body can fight off these infections on its own. If sinus symptoms linger for more than 12 weeks, we consider this chronic rhinosinusitis, and the diagnosis often requires a CT scan or an in-office examination of the nasal cavity with a camera for confirmation. While sometimes the result of infection, chronic sinusitis can also be the result of a variety of other inflammatory causes.
Seeing an ENT specialist can help to identify the best treatment options available and can include additional oral medications, intranasal sprays/rinses, or even potentially surgical interventions.