You all know that horrible feeling that you get when you’ve got a cold, right? Your sinuses are so blocked up that you can barely breathe, and walking outside makes your head throb.
That feeling of complete misery is all too familiar to a lot of people. We get colds all the time, and a lot of those include a sinus infection.
Wondering how long does a sinus infection last? Then this article is for you. Continue reading to learn more about the types of sinus infections and what it means for your normal cycle.
Let’s get into it!
Symptom Overview
Sinus infections can last anywhere from 7-14 days or longer if not treated properly. Most of these infections will resolve on their own. However, there’s a chance that they’ll develop into chronic sinusitis. Symptoms often include:
- A stuffy or runny nose
- Pain or pressure in the sinus area
- Fever
- Headaches
- Clogged ears
- Coughing
It is important to be diligent in treating these symptoms and get plenty of rest to help your body fight off the infection and make sure that it does not return in the future.
Causes of Sinus Infections
Sinus infections, or sinusitis, are caused by inflammation and an excess of mucus in your sinuses. Common causes can be from:
- Viruses
- Fungi
- Pollutants
- Allergies
- Structural problems in the nose
- environmental elements
Additionally, its average duration can vary, ranging anywhere from a few days to a full month. However, some people may be prone to chronic sinusitis, which tends to last much longer.
Ways to Avoid Sinusitis
Taking steps to avoid getting a sinus infection is the best way to keep it from lasting too long. These preventions may include:
- Regularly washing your hands
- Avoiding contact with sick people
- Covering mouth when sneezing or coughing
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Getting adequate rest
- Using a humidifier or vaporizer
Ultimately, a healthy diet full of foods that support immune health is also vital as it can help the body fight off any potential infection.
Treatment Options
In most cases, a sinus infection with proper treatment will go away within 10 days. Treatment options available include:
- Over-the-counter medications
- Decongestants
- Pain relievers
- Nasal sprays
- Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
For bacterial infections, antibiotics may be prescribed. In some cases, home remedies, such as salt water gargles, steam inhalation, and hydration, may be recommended.
If the infection is persistent, it is best to consult otolaryngologists to explore any underlying health issues.
The Risk Factors for Prolonged Sinusitis
Prolonged sinus infections lasting longer than 12 weeks are known as chronic sinusitis. Risk factors for prolonged sinusitis include allergies, nasal polyps, and a weakened immune system.
Additionally, habits such as smoking and certain medications can also increase the occurrence of a lengthened sinus infection. It is important to take steps to prevent it to help minimize the impact on a patient’s quality of life.
However, it is important to note that some individuals may experience complications that can lead to a much longer duration of symptoms.
Knowing How Long Does a Sinus Infection Last
To sum up, sinus infections can last anywhere from two to four weeks. Proper treatment may help shorten the duration of symptoms. Now that you have an idea of how long does a sinus infection last, you can ensure to get the help you need.
As always, prevention is key, so don’t neglect your regular preventive care. If you think you have this infection, visit your doctor right away!
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