SINUS INFECTION SPECIALIST
Sinus infections can be painful and inconvenient. Fortunately, patients have access to care from a board-certified emergency medicine physician at WesTex Urgent Care: Dr. Beck.
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is a temporary condition that develops when the sinuses become infected with bacteria. This typically occurs when the sinuses are blocked and filled with fluid, which allows bacteria to grow unchecked.
In many cases, sinus infections develop after the patient has had a head cold. Nasal polyps and allergies can also cause enough swelling to lead to sinus infections. Some of the most common symptoms of a sinus infection include a fever, post-nasal drip, congestion, headache in the forehead, pressure or pain around the eyes, and more.
SINUS INFECTION TREATMENT
Dr. Beck or our other doctors may prescribe antibiotics to some patients with sinus infections, especially if the symptoms have continued for many days. We may also prescribe decongestants to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. In addition to taking prescribed medications, patients may also be able to alleviate symptoms with steam, hot showers, and nasal saline. A full recovery may take a few days.
If a patient gets sinus infections frequently, further examination and treatment may be necessary. For example, if sinus infections occur because of nasal polyps, the patient may need to have the polyps removed. Likewise, if the patient suffers recurrent sinus infections because of allergies, receiving treatment for the allergies may reduce the number and severity of the sinus infections. Sinus infections will sometimes go away on their own. However, if a patient experiences the symptoms of a sinus infection for more than a week, or if the patient’s symptoms are particularly severe, he or she should come to WesTex Urgent Care for treatment.
See Us
If you experience the symptoms of a sinus infection for more than a week, or if your symptoms are particularly severe, schedule a virtual visit or visit WesTex Urgent Care for treatment right away.
