If you are experiencing headaches, nasal congestion, or a runny nose, you are not alone! As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 35 million Americans are diagnosed with sinusitis annually. With this condition, the cavities around your nasal passages get swollen. A sinus infection should be addressed as soon as practicable to prevent the disease from worsening. Nevertheless, distinguishing between the various symptoms and what they signify is difficult. Besides, an infection could present itself similarly to a cold or flu, making it difficult to respond quickly. Dr. Cecil Yeung in Houston discusses some of the common warning signs of a sinus infection to help you identify a problem early on and seek prompt care. Read on to find out more!
1. Nasal Congestion
When your nasal passages become inflamed or swollen due to a sinus infection, it becomes difficult to breathe. Therefore, you might experience trouble getting a good night’s sleep.
2. Dense, colored Nasal discharge
Dense nasal discharge is another indication of a sinus infection. The discharge could be greenish, yellowish, or hazy in appearance, with blood traces.
3. Fatigue
As your body struggles to combat the sinus infection, you might feel more exhausted than normal. The fatigue could also be due to headaches, insufficient sleep, and trouble breathing because of sinusitis.
4. Headache
Often, sinusitis infection is accompanied by pain. If you have this issue, you might experience discomfort, strain, or a throbbing feeling in your neck, on your forehead, around the eyes, in your upper jaw, or teeth.
5. Experiencing Symptoms for More Than Two Weeks
If you have suffered a cold that persists for over two weeks, it might not be a cold. Rather, it may be a sinus infection.
A typical cold will last anywhere from 7-14 days, whereas acute sinusitis can last up to a month. On the other hand, chronic sinusitis could last from four to twelve weeks or even endure for years.
6. Postnasal Drip
A nasal discharge, which drains down the back of your throat instead of via the nose, is known as a postnasal drip. If you experience postnasal drip, itchy or ticklish sensation causes you to cough and clear your throat frequently. Furthermore, because your throat is swollen and irritated, you may experience a sore throat, and your voice may get hoarse or scratchy.
7. Taste and Smell Loss
When your sinuses are clogged, it is challenging to breathe via your nose. As a result, it reduces your sense of smell. Your sense of smell consequently impacts your taste ability. Though you can distinguish between salty and sweet, food will taste bland if you suffer from a sinus infection.
A sinus infection could significantly impact your health and overall life quality. Although the above-mentioned signs are some of the most common you should look out for, Dr. Yeung emphasizes that every case and patient is unique. Some patients suffer other symptoms like bad breath, dizziness, and fever. Therefore, obtaining a professional diagnosis is key to assessing your symptoms and establishing the right care plan. To explore the alternatives available at Houston Sinus Surgery, call the office or request an appointment online right away.
