Sinus infections are a major health problem and affect more than 30 million Americans every year. Many people unsuccessfully attempt to treat their sinus infection with over-the-counter medications, but you don’t need to suffer from your symptoms. The allergy, asthma, and immunology specialists at South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group are well-versed in the various types and causes of a sinus infection and can diagnose and treat your condition and alleviate your symptoms. To schedule an appointment, contact the office in San Jose, Los Gatos, Mountain View, or Redwood City, California, by phone or online today.
Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, refers to diseases that affect your sinus cavity. Your sinus infection may be either an acute sinus infection or a chronic sinus infection.
You may be at risk of developing a sinus infection if you have allergies, asthma, a weakened immune system, or structural blockages in your nasal or sinus cavity.
An acute sinus infection is a short-term infection of the sinus cavity caused by a bacteria, virus, or fungus. They’re very common and often develop after a viral or bacterial respiratory infection. Common symptoms of an acute sinus infection include:
Unfortunately, many people with an acute sinus infection receive antibiotics, which won’t help an infection a virus causes.
South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group conducts comprehensive evaluations when you come in with concerns about a sinus infection to determine the underlying cause, so you get the most effective treatment.
In most cases, an acute sinus infection generally clears within 2-4 weeks.
A chronic sinus infection is a persistent inflammatory condition that lasts eight or more weeks and is characterized by inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines your sinus cavity.
The inflammation causes the tissue to thicken and swell, blocking the passage of air through the normally hollow cavity.
Symptoms of a chronic sinus infection are often subtle and may include:
It’s not unusual for someone with a chronic sinus infection to experience recurrent acute sinus infections.
Chronic sinusitis is difficult to diagnose. South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group recommends a CT scan to confirm or rule out a chronic sinus infection.
The specialists at South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group develop individualized treatment plans for sinus infections depending on the type of infection you have and the underlying cause.
For an acute sinus infection, treatment may include an antibiotic when appropriate, saline sinus irrigation, or intranasal topical steroids.
Chronic sinus infections often require ongoing medical management. Treatment may include medications to minimize inflammation, allergy shots, antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, or steroids. In some cases, sinus surgery is necessary to open the obstructed cavity.
To clear up your sinus infection, you need the right diagnosis. Contact South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group by phone or online to schedule an appointment with the experts.
