Is it a Sinus Infection?

by Administrator

How do you tell if it’s a sinus infection or seasonal allergies? And how can you avoid a sinus infection?

A sinus infection usually presents with some typical symptoms:

  • headache
  • facial pain
  • runny nose
  • nasal congestion
  • tooth pain
  • pain around cheeks and face

Since a sinus infection is a bacterial infection, it may require antibiotics. The symptoms of allergies and a sinus infection are often the same so it’s sometimes hard to distinguish the difference. Tooth pain and pain in the cheeks and face are usually an indication of a sinus infection.

Managing your seasonal allergies can help you avoid a sinus infection.

  • Wash your hair each night after being outdoors
  • Monitor pollen and mold counts
  • Keep windows shut during allergy season
  • Wash clothes after playing or working outdoors
  • Wear a mask filter when working outdoors, gardening or mowing grass
  • Wash bed linens often in hot water to avoid dust mites

Sinus infections may clear up on their own without treatment, but some might require medication. If your symptoms last for longer than seven to 10 days, your doctor may consider prescribing antibiotics.