What is a Sinus Infection?

Sinus infections are often called “sinusitis” (also “rhinosinusitis”), sinus infections occur when either viruses or certain forms of bacteria multiply within the body’s sinus cavities. Sinus infections also typically involve inflammation of the sinuses. Sinuses are  hollow areas within the bones which surround the nose and are generally empty in healthy individuals. With sinusitis, they may become filled with mucus, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria. 

What Causes Sinus Infections?

Sinuses are normally open cavities, and fluid buildup can lead to infection or discomfort. Sinus infections often start with the presence of swelling inside of the nose—it may be precipitated by the common cold or by allergies. This can lead to blockages in drainage ducts, which means mucus that doesn’t flow as it should and instead remains stagnant within the sinuses. 

Patients with uncomplicated acute rhinosinusitis can be managed symptomatically and will typically improve within two weeks. While there are no treatments that shorten the clinical course of the disease, there are options to manage the symptoms to improve comfort. Though less common, structural abnormalities can also cause sinus infections to occur, including nasal polyps. 

Acute vs. Chronic Sinusitis

The vast majority of people who come down with a case of sinusitis will experience the illness as a result of complications from a cold, or perhaps a particularly bad bout of allergies. These cases are said to be acute in nature. That said, many people suffer from the regular occurrence of sinus infections, often due to structural abnormalities such as a deviated septum. 

While the vast majority of cases of acute sinusitis are caused by viruses, chronic sinusitis is often due to inflammation and/or structural abnormalities—surgery may be required for symptomatic relief in severe chronic sinusitis cases. 

What are the Symptoms of Sinus Infection?

Symptoms of sinusitis can differ depending upon whether or not the illness is acute or chronic. Common symptoms, however, are as follows: 

Acute Sinusitis

• Facial pain
• Pressure in sinuses
• Cough
• Congestion
• Stuffy (occasionally runny) nose
• Reduced sense of smell
• Fever

Chronic Sinusitis

• Fatigue
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Dental pain (upper teeth)
• Pus in nasal cavity
• Post-nasal drip

Pediatrics Considerations

Though sinusitis commonly affects adults, children are also susceptible due to a number of different factors. Causes for sinusitis in children may include: 

• Allergies
• Pacifiers
• Bottles (especially drinking when laying on back)
• Second-hand smoke

We’re Here to Help

Sinus infections can be uncomfortable and disruptive. At ConvenientMD, our providers assess sinus symptoms and determine appropriate care for acute or chronic sinusitis during your visit. 

Walk in for timely medical evaluation—no appointment required. Open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.