What Are Sinus Infections?
The sinuses are made up of 4 sets of air-filled pockets: the maxillary sinuses (at the sides of the nose), the frontal sinuses (at the forehead), the ethmoid sinuses (behind the eyes), and the sphenoid sinuses (at the back of the nasal cavity). These pockets produce mucus to moisten the nose and help filter the air we breathe. When the sinuses are functioning normally, the mucus passes through tiny openings and then drains down the back of the throat. If there is a blockage or obstruction, however, mucus is unable to drain from the sinus passages. As a result, fluid builds up in the sinus pocket, which creates a moist environment where pathogens can grow. These bacteria or viruses can cause a sinus infection.
| TYPES OF SINUS INFECTIONS |
| Acute Sinus Infections |
| May last a few weeks before symptoms resolve. Acute sinus infections are typically caused by a virus or bacteria. |
| Subacute Sinus Infections |
| May last up to 8 weeks before symptoms resolve. Subacute sinus infections may be caused by a virus or bacteria and can be exacerbated by allergies. |
| Chronic Sinus Infections |
| May last over 8 weeks and keep returning. Chronic sinus infections may be viral or bacterial. Chronic infections are typically an indicator of a sinus disorder. |
What Causes Sinus Infections?
There are many factors that can contribute to sinus infections. The infections themselves are caused by viruses or bacteria that proliferate when the sinus cavity fills with mucus. If the sinuses are blocked by an obstruction, they cannot drain the mucus, which leads to a backup in the sinus cavity. These blockages can be caused by growths (nasal polyps or tumors), deformities of the sinus or nose (deviated septum or enlarged turbinates), and irritants that inflame the sinuses (allergies or environmental factors). Sinus obstructions may lead to reoccurring or chronic sinus infections. Since there are so many possible causes of sinus infections, these conditions are difficult to diagnose without the professional help of an ENT. Below are some of the most common contributing factors to sinus infections:
| SINUS INFECTION CAUSES |
| Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections |
| Respiratory tract infections |
| Allergens |
| Nasal polyps or tumors |
| Sinus tumors or growths |
| Nasal deformities |
| Environmental or chemical factors that inflame the sinus lining |
| Medical conditions and immune disorders |
| Side effects of certain medications |
What Are The Symptoms Of Sinus Infections?
Sinus infections have a wide range of symptoms that can affect the nose, throat, and head. Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other sinus-related conditions, so it may be difficult to detect if you have a sinus infection without a professional diagnosis.
| SINUS INFECTION SYMPTOMS |
| DISCOLORED NASAL DISCHARGE (MAY BE GREEN OR YELLOW) |
| SINUS HEADACHES |
| FACIAL TENDERNESS OR PRESSURE (ESPECIALLY AROUND THE EYES, FOREHEAD, & CHEEKS) |
| DIFFICULTY BREATHING THROUGH THE NOSE |
| IMPAIRED SMELL & TASTE |
| COUGHING THAT GETS WORSE AT NIGHT |
| WATERY OR PUFFY EYES |
| FEVER |
| POST-NASAL DRIP |
| SORE OR RASPY THROAT |
| EARACHES |
| SENSITIVITY AROUND THE TEETH |
What Are Some Common Sinus Infection Treatments?
Acute and subacute forms of sinus infections typically respond well to medications. Chronic sinus infections may be more difficult to treat because they are usually indicators of another sinus disorder or structural issue. Dr. Shin will work with you to develop a treatment plan.
Non-invasive treatments for sinus infections can be used to manage symptoms. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial sinus infections. Saline-based nasal sprays can rinse nasal passages, while decongestants can improve the flow of air through your nose.
Corticosteroids can reduce and manage inflammation. If allergies are exacerbating your sinus infections, then allergy treatments may also be recommended.
| TREATMENT PLAN FOCUSES |
| Reducing symptoms |
| Improving sinus drainage |
| Treating inflammation |
| Opening up the sinus passageways |
| Removing obstructions or blockages |
| Excising nasal or sinus-related growths |
| Correcting nasal deviations or deformities |