A sinus infection, medically known as sinusitis, occurs when the tissues lining the sinus cavities become inflamed and swollen. These sinuses are air-filled spaces located behind the forehead, cheeks, and nose. While often triggered by viruses, such as those causing the common cold, sinusitis can also develop due to bacterial infections, allergies, or fungi. This inflammation can lead to a buildup of mucus, causing pressure and discomfort in the face.
Understanding Bacterial Sinus Infections
Distinguishing a bacterial sinus infection from a more common viral one is important. Viral sinus infections typically improve within 7 to 10 days. A bacterial infection is suspected if symptoms persist without improvement for over 10 days, or if they initially improve but then worsen significantly, a pattern sometimes called “double sickening.”
Symptoms indicating a bacterial cause include a high fever (often above 101°F), thick, discolored nasal discharge (yellow or green), and persistent facial pain or pressure. While some of these symptoms can occur with viral infections, their persistence or severity points towards a bacterial origin.
Expected Duration and Influencing Factors
The duration of a bacterial sinus infection varies depending on whether it is treated. Without appropriate treatment, symptoms can linger for weeks, though self-resolution is less common than for viral infections. If treated with antibiotics, patients typically respond within 2 to 3 days, with symptoms resolving in 7 to 14 days. Completing the full course of antibiotics is important to clear the infection and prevent recurrence.
Several factors influence how long a bacterial sinus infection lasts. An individual’s overall health and immune status play a role. The infection’s severity at onset also impacts its duration. Antibiotic resistance can prolong the infection, making it harder to treat.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is important to seek medical attention for a sinus infection if symptoms suggest a bacterial infection or potential complications. If symptoms last longer than 10 days without improvement, or if they initially get better and then worsen, a doctor’s visit is recommended. A high fever lasting more than three to four days also warrants professional assessment.
Specific red flag symptoms indicate a need for immediate medical attention. These include severe headache or facial pain, swelling or redness around the eyes, vision changes such as double vision, confusion, or a stiff neck. These symptoms suggest the infection may have spread beyond the sinuses, requiring prompt intervention.