Common Signs of Sinusitis

Common Signs of Sinusitis

Sinusitis (also commonly referred to as a sinus infection) is a common upper respiratory problem that affects close to 30 million American sinusitisadults according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Because the symptoms can be similar, many people mistake a sinus infection for a cold, but a typical sinus infection can take weeks to clear up, as opposed to a few days for the common cold. There are two types of sinus infections: acute and chronic. Acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) usually clears up within four weeks, chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) lasts more than 12 weeks. Dr. Arthur Katz, an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor or ENT), offers treatment for sinusitis in the Munster and Merrillville, IN, and Olympia Falls, IL, area.

Sinusitis Symptoms and Treatment in Munster, Merrillville, and Olympia Falls

Most sinus infections are viral (caused by a virus), but some are caused by bacteria. (If your sinusitis is caused by a bacterial infection, you will be prescribed antibiotics.) Sinusitis symptoms vary and depend on the type and severity of infection, but the main symptom of a sinus infection is inflammation, which narrows the sinus cavity and prevents mucus from draining properly, causing fluid buildup and pressure in the sinus cavity.

The most common sinusitis symptoms include:

  • Pain, swelling, and pressure behind the eyes, forehead, and nose
  • Thick green or yellow nasal discharge
  • Post nasal drip
  • Headache and/or earache
  • Bad breath
  • Cough
  • Pain/pressure in the temples or jaw
  • Fever

It can be difficult to tell the difference between a sinus infection and cold or flu at first, but if your symptoms persist for a few weeks or you experience a high fever, schedule an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat doctor for an exam and diagnosis.

Find an Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor in Munster, Merrillville, and Olympia Falls

To learn more about the symptoms and treatment options for sinusitis and other ear, nose, and throat problems, contact our office by calling (219) 934-9396 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Katz in Munster, (219) 769-8441 for Merrillville, or (708) 747-6900 for Olympia Falls.