When it comes to sinus infections, many people do not know the signs to look out for that they may have one. And because the signs can overlap with other conditions, they may incorrectly self-diagnose and end up not getting the treatment they need when they need it. Get to know some of the signs that you have a sinus infection as well as what you should do about the situation. Then, you can be sure that you are doing what is best for your health if you ever have symptoms of a sinus infection.
Sinus Pain or Pressure
If you have pain or pressure in your cheeks, just under your eyes, or in your forehead between your eyes, you may be experiencing sinus problems. The sinuses in the face are located in the cheeks and above the eyes (toward the center of the forehead).
Do not ignore this pain or feeling of pressure, especially if it lasts more than a day or so. This is a telltale sign that something is wrong with your sinuses.
Headache
Headaches are also common with sinus infections, especially when their epicenter is between the eyes. If you have been having headaches like this frequently, you could have a sinus infection rather than just a headache.
Nasal Congestion
Nasal congestion is another common sign of sinus infections and often gets the condition confused with others. Colds, flu, and even COVID-19 can cause nasal congestion.
As such, it is easy to overlook the possibility of a sinus infection. If you do not have a fever, cough, shortness of breath, or the like, it is likely not one of the other illnesses but a sinus infection causing your symptoms.
Drainage Down Throat
Nasal drainage down the back of your throat is another common sign that you have a sinus infection. This is caused by the sinuses draining and can be quite uncomfortable. It can also cause irritation to the throat making it painful as well.
Thick Nasal Discharge
Thick nasal drainage, generally that is either greenish or yellow, is another telltale sign of an infection. If this is paired with other symptoms, you likely have a sinus infection.
What to Do
The only way to be absolutely certain what you are experiencing is a sinus infection is to head to a walk-in clinic to find out. At the walk-in clinic, they will screen you for COVID-19 and the flu first. You may get a flu test and if that comes back negative, get a COVID-19 test.
If you do have a sinus infection rather than another type of illness, your walk-in clinic doctor will likely prescribe you an antibiotic. Many sinus infections are bacterial and as such, antibiotics tend to wipe them out. If you do not feel better by the time your antibiotic round is complete, return to the walk-in clinic for follow-up care. It may be that your sinus infection was not bacterial or that it is and you need a different antibiotic to get rid of it.
Now that you know some of the signs you have a sinus infection and what to do about it, you can head to a local walk-in clinic as soon as you notice any symptoms.
Share29 June 2020
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