Sinus infection symptoms: When to consult a doctor?

Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, are a common health concern that can leave you feeling miserable. If you’ve ever dealt with a sinus infection, you know how it can impact your daily life—making even simple tasks feel overwhelming. But when should you ride it out, and when is it time to call a doctor?

What is sinusitis (sinus infection)?

Sinusitis occurs when the tissues lining your sinuses (the air-filled pockets in your face) become inflamed. This inflammation can lead to blockage, trapping mucous and creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Sinusitis can range from a minor inconvenience to a serious medical condition, depending on its cause and severity.

Types of sinusitis

Sinusitis can be classified into four types based on how long the symptoms last:

1. Acute sinusitis: Lasts up to 4 weeks and is often caused by a viral infection like the common cold.
2. Subacute sinusitis: Persists for 4–12 weeks and may result from lingering infections or allergies.
3. Chronic sinusitis: Lasts more than 12 weeks, even with treatment. It’s often linked to structural issues or ongoing allergies.
4. Recurrent sinusitis: Involves multiple episodes of sinusitis within a year.

Understanding which type you’re dealing with can guide your treatment plan.

 

How to tell if it’s sinusitis, COVID-19, a cold, or an allergy?

The symptoms of sinusitis can overlap with other conditions, making it tricky to pinpoint the cause. Here’s how to differentiate them:

• Sinusitis: Common symptoms include facial pressure, nasal congestion, thick nasal discharge (yellow or green), and a reduced sense of smell. Fever may occur in bacterial cases.
• COVID-19: Loss of taste and smell without nasal congestion is a hallmark symptom of COVID-19, along with fatigue, fever, and cough.
• Cold: Symptoms are milder and include sneezing, runny nose, and a sore throat. Nasal discharge is typically clear.
• Allergy: Symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose (with clear discharge) are triggered by allergens rather than infections.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a doctor can help clarify the diagnosis. Also read: Runny nose and sneezing – What is it & how to get better naturally?

Symptoms and causes of sinusitis

Sinusitis symptoms vary depending on the severity and type but often include:

• Facial pain or pressure (especially around the eyes, nose, or forehead)
• Nasal congestion or blockage
• Thick nasal discharge
• Postnasal drip (mucous dripping down the back of your throat)
• Headache
• Cough (worse at night)
• Fatigue
• Fever (in bacterial sinusitis)

Causes include viral infections, bacterial infections, allergies, nasal polyps, or a deviated septum.

How long does a sinus infection last?

• Viral sinusitis: Typically resolves within 7–10 days without specific treatment.
• Bacterial sinusitis: Can last longer and may require antibiotics if symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen after an initial improvement.
• Chronic sinusitis: Persists for months and may require a more comprehensive treatment plan, including potential surgery.

What are the risk factors for sinusitis?

Certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing sinusitis:

• Seasonal allergies
• Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke
• Air pollution
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Structural abnormalities like a deviated septum
• Nasal polyps
• Weakened immune system

Minimising these risk factors can reduce your chances of getting a sinus infection.

Diagnosis and tests

If your symptoms are severe or persistent, a doctor may perform the following:

• Physical examination: Checking your nose, throat, and sinuses.
• Radiology imaging tests: A CT scan or MRI to examine sinus structures in more detail.
• Nasal endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera to inspect your nasal passages.
• Allergy testing: To identify triggers if allergies are suspected.

Home treatments and prevention

Mild sinus infections often respond well to home care. Try these remedies:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water thins mucous.
• Use a humidifier: Keeps airways moist and eases congestion.
• Steam inhalation: Breathing in steam can open up blocked sinuses.
• Saline nasal spray: Rinses out irritants and clears nasal passages.
• Over-the-counter medications: Decongestants, antihistamines, and pain relievers can help manage symptoms.

To prevent sinus infections:

• Avoid allergens and irritants.
• Practice good hand hygiene.
• Use a saline spray regularly to keep nasal passages clear.
• Treat colds promptly to prevent them from escalating.

When to see a doctor?

It’s essential to consult a doctor if you experience:

• Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement.
• Severe facial pain or swelling.
• High fever (above 38°C) lasting more than 3 days.
• Vision changes or a swollen forehead.
• Recurrent sinus infections.

These could indicate a bacterial infection or complications requiring professional care.

How can an online doctor help via telehealth?

Telehealth services make it easy to consult a doctor without leaving your home. Through a virtual visit, a doctor can:

• Evaluate your symptoms.
• Recommend treatments like nasal sprays or over-the-counter medications.
• Prescribe antibiotics or antivirals if necessary.
• Provide guidance on when to seek in-person care.

For uncomplicated sinus infections, telehealth can be a convenient and effective option. An online doctor can provide a wide range of healthcare services via telehealth, making medical care more accessible and convenient. Here's how they can help:

• Telehealth consultations: Speak with a qualified online doctor from the comfort of your home through secure video or phone consultations.
• Online prescriptions: Receive instant scripts for your medication, without needing to visit a clinic. Also have your medicines delivered through online pharmacy delivery at your convenient time.
• Medical certificates: Obtain a valid medical certificate online for work or school without stepping out of your home.
• Doctor referrals: Access online referrals to specialists and diagnostic services, saving time and effort.

Will a sinus infection go away on its own?

Most sinus infections caused by viruses will resolve on their own within 7–10 days. However, bacterial infections may require antibiotics. Chronic sinusitis or infections that don’t improve with home care need medical evaluation.

Conclusion

Sinus infections can be unpleasant, but understanding their symptoms and causes can help you manage them effectively. If your symptoms are mild, home remedies may do the trick. But if they persist or worsen, consulting a doctor—whether in person or via telehealth—is a smart move. Don’t ignore the signs, especially if they’re severe. Taking action early can save you from unnecessary discomfort and complications.