When the mucus coming out of your nose is thick and yellow or green, chances are you’ve developed a sinus infection. It is usually triggered by a cold: when you are constantly wiping and blowing your nose bacteria has ample opportunity to get in. A sinus infection occurs when the nasal passages subsequently become inflamed. When this happens, it may be time to see your doctor.
How Do I Know I Have One?
A sinus infection may first feel like a cold, but often the symptoms last longer and are more severe. You likely have one if you:
- Have symptoms that last more than a week
- Feel pressure behind your cheeks and eyes
- Have thick, brightly colored mucus
- Feel fatigued
- Have bad breath
- Feel dizzy when changing positions
Do I Need to See a Doctor?
While sinus infections can go away without treatment, it can take some time. Antibiotics will usually help clear it up sooner. Also, you should see a doctor if you develop a fever or your infection symptoms last for weeks, both symptoms that are atypical.
Also, if left on its own an infection may recur. If it does, you should see a doctor who can verify if there is an underlying condition that is causing it. Habits such as smoking can make it worse, as well.
Having a sinus infection is certainly unpleasant; seeing a physician for it can help you clear it up now and possibly prevent future illness. For more information about sinus infection treatment in Cary, please visit this website.
Allergies Care 