What Causes a Sinus Infection?

Is your nasal congestion, headaches and runny nose a sign of a sinus infection?

If our Carmel, IN, ENT doctors Dr. Robert Youkilis, Dr. Jeffrey Beach and Dr. Seth Bruggers just told you that you have a sinus infection, we certainly hope you feel better soon. Sinusitis is a common cause of acute and sometimes chronic inflammation of the sinuses. Want to learn more about sinus infections? You’ve come to the right place.

Is it a sinus infection? 

Colds, flu, sinus infections and allergies often share many of the same symptoms, so you may not be sure if you have a sinus infection on your hands. Here are the telltale signs that you have a sinus infection,

  • Facial pain and pressure (often around the nose, forehead, between the eyes and cheeks)
  • Facial tenderness
  • Postnasal drip
  • Runny nose
  • Headaches
  • Persistent cough
  • Sore throat
  • Bad breath
  • Referred pain in the upper teeth
  • Fever (often a sign of a bacterial or fungal infection; this requires immediate treatment)

What causes a sinus infection? 

Sinus infections are typically viral, and you may find yourself dealing with one after recovering from a cold; however, sinus infections may also be bacterial or fungal. Pollutants or allergies may also put you at risk of developing an acute sinus infection.

When should I see a doctor? 

Most sinus infections will go away on their own, so you may not need to see a doctor; however, it’s essential that you do turn to our Carmel, IN, team if,

  • Your symptoms don’t improve within a few days
  • Your symptoms last more than ten days
  • Your symptoms are getting worse
  • Your fever is above 101 F, or you have a fever that lasts more than 3-4 days
  • Your symptoms don’t improve with antibiotics  
  • Your sinus infection keeps coming back

If in doubt, contact our Carmel, IN, practice to find out if you should have your sinus infection evaluated by our team. Our ENT doctors can diagnose and treat both acute and chronic sinusitis, as well as various conditions, injuries and diseases that impact the health and function of the ear, nose and throat. To schedule a consultation with us, call Northside ENT at (317) 844-5656.

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Our Regular Schedule

Northside ENT

Monday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-4:30 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed