When the sinuses become inflamed and swollen as a result of a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection, it is known as a sinus infection. Acute or persistent infections are possible (long-lasting). A sinus infection can strike anyone at any time. Sinusitis is more common in patients who have nasal allergies, nasal polyps, asthma, or atypical nose structures.
How to know if there is a sinus?
As the weather change, allergic people get infected. Normal Colds and flu often get better by taking their full time. It gets better within a week at most. However, from the third-fourth day, the intensity of the cold starts decreasing.
It's not always easy to distinguish between a cold, allergies, and a sinus infection. Headaches and stuffiness are common symptoms of sinus infections, colds, and allergies. While colds and allergies can induce congestion and a runny nose, sinus infections typically create a throbbing sensation in the face and a sense of pressure. A cold that lasts too long can turn into a sinus infection. Sneezing is a symptom that isn't normally related to sinus infections, but it might be caused by allergies or colds.
Diagnosis of Sinus Infection
If you have a sinus infection, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and how long they've been present, as well as perform a physical examination. This exam may include examining for polyps in the nose, doing a transillumination test to detect inflammation, and tapping the sinus area for infections.
If you have a persistent sinus infection, your doctor may order additional testing, such as a blood test.:
- Rhinoscopy or nasal endoscopy: To inspect your sinuses and see if your membranes are inflamed
- Mucus cultures: To determine what is specifically causing your infection (if it has not improved after antibiotics)
- Allergy tests: To determine what allergens may be triggering your chronic or recurrent infections
- CT scan: To identify sinus abnormalities, such as polyps or a deviated septum
- MRI scan: To see if you have a nasal tumor or fungal infection
If you have a serious fungal sinus infection, your doctor may order a bone biopsy to see if the infection has penetrated your bones.
If you have a cold and develop symptoms of a sinus infection or a nasal allergy, visit an ENT specialist or you can visit the best ENT Hospital in Gurgaon. You will be asked to describe your symptoms and medical history to make a relevant treatment plan.
