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What is a sinus infection?

A sinus infection happens when the sinus cavity becomes swollen and inflamed. The pain can occur behind the nose, cheekbones, and forehead. Sinus infections have several causes, including viral infections, bacteria, allergens, or other environmental exposures like pollution or cigarette smoke.

Symptoms of a sinus infection

Sinus infections differ from a typical head cold, although some symptoms may overlap. The most common symptoms of a sinus infection include:

• Congestion
• Postnasal drip
• Runny nose
• Green or yellow mucus
• Fever
• Pain behind the cheeks, nose, and forehead
• Sore throat
• Toothache
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Bad breath

What causes a sinus infection?

Viral infections are among the most common cause of sinus infections. Viruses like the common cold can cause inflammation and swelling in the sinuses, leading to mucus buildup.

Certain bacteria can also cause a sinus infection. This is more likely to occur if you have a weakened immune system or if the lining of your sinuses is damaged. Allergens like dust, pollen, and mold can also trigger an inflammation response in the sinuses, leading to a sinus infection.

Some people may experience chronic sinus infections. This is more likely to occur if you have one of the following risk factors:

• Frequent colds or infections
• Hay fever
• Cigarette smoking
• Frequent exposure to secondhand smoke
• Structural problems with the nasal cavity
• A weakened immune system
• Treatment with medication that suppresses the immune system

Treatment options

Sinus infections respond well to over-the-counter treatments and at-home care. Many go away without medication.

Home remedies can ease symptoms, such as warm compresses, steam inhalation, and using a humidifier to keep the air moist. Saline nasal sprays may also help reduce congestion. Decongestant nasal sprays can be used for up to three days when additional relief is needed. Always follow the instructions when taking over-the-counter medications.

Oral decongestants and medications like Robitussin or Mucinex can provide short-term relief from excessive mucus, coughing, and sinus pressure. These should be taken for a maximum of seven days.

OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help relieve sinus headaches and general discomfort.

When sinus infections last longer than two weeks or continue to worsen after one week, consult a healthcare provider. You may need an antibiotic to clear the infection.

Are sinus infections contagious?

Sinus infections caused by viruses are contagious, similar to the common cold and influenza. They spread through airborne droplets when someone coughs or sneezes. It’s also possible to catch a sinus infection from close contact with someone who has one, like shaking hands or sharing utensils.

Good hygiene practices like regular hand washing, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick can help prevent the spread of sinus infections. A person with a viral sinus infection may be contagious for up to two weeks, including the few days before they begin showing symptoms.

What’s the best medicine for sinus pressure?

Sinus pressure treatment depends on the location and severity of the pressure. Pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce head pain and inflammation.

Saline nasal sprays and washes from a neti pot may help open the sinuses, decrease pressure, and ease congestion. These can typically be repeated a few times a day for relief.

Over-the-counter oral decongestants and nasal sprays can provide relief but are typically only safe for up to three days.

When allergies cause sinus infections, antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), loratadine (Claritin), or pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) may alleviate congestion and other symptoms.

Antibiotics for a bacterial sinus infection should begin working in as little as 48 hours. Be sure to take the whole course of antibiotics to prevent a recurrence of symptoms.

Can an online doctor treat a sinus infection?

In many cases, online doctors can effectively treat sinus infections. During the appointment, your provider will speak with you about your symptoms and ask questions about your health and medical history.

When symptoms are consistent with a bacterial sinus infection, online providers can prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. If allergies or a viral infection are to blame, they can advise on over-the-counter treatment that may help ease your symptoms.

What medication can an online doctor prescribe for a sinus infection?

Most sinus infections do not require prescription medications. However, if your symptoms don’t improve after 10 days or worsen, you may have a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics. In the United States, antibiotics are only available with a prescription from a medical provider.

Common antibiotics used to treat sinus infections include:

• Amoxicillin
• Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate)
• Doxycycline 
• Cefdinir 

How long does a sinus infection last?

Sinus infections caused by a virus may last 1-2 weeks and should clear up on their own. If allergies or hay fever are the cause, symptoms may last as long as the person is exposed to the allergen or trigger.

Sinus infections that don’t clear up after 10-14 days or keep coming back require medical care.

Can a sinus infection go away on its own?

Many sinus infections will go away on their own. A medical provider should evaluate sinus infections that worsen after one week. If a bacterial infection has caused it, antibiotics may be necessary to treat it.