As the weather changes, you might notice that you’re dealing with a runny or stuffy nose. It’s important that you’re able to tell if you’re just dealing with a cold or if you’re dealing with a sinus infection. Some of the symptoms may be similar, but treatment is different, and a sinus infection may need antibiotics to help kill any bacteria that may be lingering. When you’re able to spot the signs of a sinus infection, you’ll know when to see your doctor and how to start feeling your best again.
Spotting a Sinus Infection
There are many similarities in the symptoms between a cold, allergies, and sinus infections, but there are specific differences, and you should be able to tell if you’re dealing with a sinus infection. When you are able to spot a sinus infection, you can understand when to visit your doctor for treatment and they can also give you tips on managing your sinus infection symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- Postnasal drip
- Bright green mucus
- Stuffy or congested nose
- Pressure and tenderness in the face
- Headaches
- Tooth pain
- Coughing
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Bad breath
Some of these symptoms may overlap with issues like allergies or a bad cold, but it’s important to know that they’re different. Often, a sinus infection will leave you feeling tenderness and pressure in the eyes, cheeks, and nose area. You can also experience pain in your ears and jaw.
Your doctor may prescribe you antibiotics to kill any bacteria that might be causing your sinus infection. Nasal sprays and decongestants can also help relieve some of your symptoms and help you start to breathe normally again.
Contact Our ENT Doctor Today
Make sure you can identify a sinus infection! Contact your ENT doctor today to learn more about sinus infections and the symptoms that may accompany one.