Sinusitis is a sinus infection that "affects 1 out of every 7 adults in the United States, with more than 30 million individuals diagnosed each year," according to Medscape. A sinus infection is uncomfortable and you have to speak with your ENT, Dr. Sina Joorabchi of Pembroke Pines, FL, for a proper diagnosis and to stop the infection from spiraling into something more serious, like meningitis.

More About Sinus Infections

Sinusitis is the swelling of the tissue lining of sinuses. Instead of breathing in air, fluid and germs block sinuses and cause an infection. Several conditions can cause a sinus blockage like the common cold, allergens, nasal polyps, or even a deviated septum.

Children may also develop a sinus infection if they contract an illness from other kids, bottle drinking while lying on the back or using pacifiers, and smoke in the environment.

Types of Sinus Infections

• Acute Sinusitis Symptoms: Much like a common cold, acute Sinusitis starts with a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain, but an acute sinus infection lasts about 2-4 weeks.

Symptoms include:

• Facial pain or pressure
• Thick, green, or yellow nasal discharge
• Dental pain
• Fatigue
• Bad breath
• Fever
• Cough or congestion
• Loss of smell
• Runny nose
• "Stuffed-up" nose

• Chronic Sinusitis Symptoms: This sinus infection lasts 12 weeks or longer.

Symptoms include:

• Facial congestion
• Fatigue
• Tooth pain
• Bad breath
• Headaches
• Discolored postnasal drainage
• Runny nose
• Fever
• Pus in the nasal cavity
• Nasal obstruction or nasal blockage

• Viral sinusitis: It takes about 7-10 days to resolve a sinus issue and antibiotics do not cure them. You need only manage symptoms with the help of your Pembroke Pines doctor and medicine of course: saline nasal sprays, and over-the-counter pain relievers, and oral decongestants.

Symptoms include:

• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Coughing
• Clear or slightly-colored mucus

Need to speak with an ENT?

A sinus infection should be taken seriously. Speak with Dr. Sina Joorabchi of Pembroke Pines, FL, about getting a proper diagnosis or for other ENT-related issues by calling (954) 438-7171.