A sinus infection can cause pain and pressure in the nose, cheeks, forehead, and eyes. The pain often gets worse when you move your head, sneeze, cough, or breathe. A sinus infection can also make you feel tired or lethargic. If you think you have a sinus infection, see your doctor right away.축농증한의원
A lot of the time, a sinus infection feels and sounds like a cold or flu, so it can be hard to tell if you really have one. The right diagnosis lets you get the treatment you need.
Your body’s immune system normally defends the sinuses by making a thin layer of mucus to trap dust, germs, and other air pollutants. This mucus drains through the nose and down the back of the throat. If the sinuses become inflamed and swollen, it can block this drainage and create a home for viruses or bacteria.
The most common type of sinus infection is caused by a virus and does not need antibiotics to treat. However, if the infection does not improve after 10 days, or if it comes back, you should visit your health care provider. If the infection is bacterial, you will need antibiotics to fight it.
To diagnose a sinus infection, your health care professional will ask about your symptoms and do a physical exam. You may need a CT scan or other imaging tests to view your sinuses. Doctors who specialize in ear, nose, and throat problems (ENTs) can also use a thin tube with a camera on the end of the nose to look inside the sinuses. This procedure is called nasal endoscopy or rhinoscopy.
You can ease the discomfort of a sinus infection by drinking plenty of fluids, applying warm washcloths to your face several times a day, and using a vaporizer or saline spray in your nose. If you have chronic sinusitis, your doctor may recommend a treatment such as inhaled steroids or surgery to improve your nasal drainage.
Usually, sinus infections are caused by viruses that spread from the upper respiratory tract (nose, mouth, and throat). But sometimes, allergies or fungus can trigger the condition. You can reduce your risk of sinus infections by managing your allergies, avoiding irritants that trigger sinuses, and getting regular dental exams.
Sinus infections can be serious, especially if they spread to the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which is called meningitis. This is rare, but it can happen.
If you do have a sinus infection, take the antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. Antibiotics are standard treatment for bacterial sinus infections, and they can help you recover sooner. They should be taken for 3 to 28 days, depending on the type of antibiotic you have.
Overuse of antibiotics can lead to “antibiotic resistance.” It’s important to get the right treatment for a sinus infection. To prevent future sinus infections, follow your doctor’s recommendations for preventing and treating allergies, getting regular vaccinations, and practicing good hygiene.라경찬한의원