A sinus infection is an issue that occurs when either a virus or bacterium infects the sinuses. The sinuses then become inflamed -- referred to as sinusitis. While it rarely causes complications, it can linger for quite some time. And for some people, sinusitis is a chronic issue. At Century Ear, Nose & Throat, Head & Neck Surgery, serving Oak Lawn, Orland Park, and Lemont, IL, and the neighboring regions, our practitioners can help.

General Information

A sinus infection occurs when you have mucus that builds up inside of your sinuses. As a result, germs may grow and breed there and cause a sinus infection. Most of the time, a sinus infection is viral and may stem from a cold or flu virus. On the other hand, it can also be bacterial.

You're more likely to suffer from a sinus infection if you have seasonal allergies or are immunocompromised. Keep in mind that certain medications can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to these infections.

Typically, a sinus infection will last between seven to 10 days. For some of our Oak Lawn, Orland Park, and Lemont, IL, patients, the infection lasts much longer or may recur.

Signs of a Sinus Infection

The most common symptom of a sinus infection is a runny or stuffy nose. The mucus from an infection is usually yellowish or green. It's thicker than the standard mucus you produce when you don't have a sinus infection.

You may also experience a headache or facial pain or pressure. Coughing and sore throat are also possible.

Fever is another sign of a sinus infection.

Treatment for a Sinus Infection

The treatment that our practitioner will prescribe depends on the underlying cause of your sinus infection. For instance, if you have a bacterial infection, a doctor from our practice will prescribe an antibiotic. There isn't a cure for a viral infection, but we can provide you with comfort measures.

Patients who are experiencing recurring sinus infections may need to get to the root of the problem. The same applies if you've had a sinus infection that's lasted for three months or longer.

Your treatment may include better management of your allergy symptoms. Sometimes, surgery is necessary, but we make that a last resort. And it's only beneficial for some patients. We limit surgical procedures to those with nasal or sinus polyps and those with an abnormal sinus structure.

You don't have to suffer from a sinus infection when one of our Oak Lawn, Orland Park, and Lemont, IL, doctors can help, whether it's chronic or acute.

Contact us today for an appointment by calling Century Ear, Nose & Throat, Head & Neck Surgery at (708) 460-0007.