Sinus Infection Symptoms

For anyone who has ever suffered from this particular illness, sinus infection symptoms are unmistakable, because the pain and discomfort is unforgettable. For those with chronic sinus trouble it never seems to go away.  Whether the signs are there for a day, a week, or months, they can be totally incapacitating.

The Pressure:  The pressure from a sinus infection can make an individual’s face and head feel like it is swollen way out of proportion.  If a person could pop the face like a balloon, it would surely feel better.  It makes it impossible to rest; yet, it is difficult to concentrate at work, because it is hard to think about anything but the increasing pressure around the bridge of the nose, above the cheekbones, and in the forehead. The ears can also suffer the discomfort of a sinus infection.  The feeling is similar to being in high altitudes.

However, chewing gum or yawning does not pop the ears and relieve the pressure.  Instead, it only gets worse, if left untreated.

The Pain:  Sinus infection symptoms almost always include pain.  In fact, it may be the first clue that an individual is getting sick.  Almost anywhere in the head can hurt, if there is sinus trouble.  In severe cases, the neck can even become stiff and painful.  The most common areas of tenderness are around the eyes and the bridge of the nose.  But, some people even have ear aches and oral pain. Headaches are not uncommon.  In addition to the pressure, the pain can make it impossible to function properly at work or at home.

The Congestion: Sinus infection symptoms include congestion that is similar to a severe cold.  Most people want to lie down and rest, but this sign makes it practically impossible.  The clogged feeling only gets worse in the prone position.  The nose may seem to run like an open faucet, but it doesn’t provide any relief.  Instead, the face starts feeling like an overblown balloon about to pop.  If the infection is bacterial in nature, the mucus may take on a dark yellow or even green tint.  It becomes thicker and more difficult to expel, when blowing the nose.

Fever:  Not all sinus infections include a fever.  But, many people suffer a temperature, along with the other signs of sinus problems. In most cases, over-the-counter pain killers will also reduce this symptom.  But, if a fever persists, it is time to seek professional medical care.

Sore Throat:  A sore throat is a common symptom of a sinus infection.  Because the nasal passages become blocked, the mucus has to drain somewhere.  Thus, it tends to escape down the back of the throat.  Over a period of time, the tissue becomes red and irritated.

Cough:  A sinus infection can also cause a person to cough.  As the mucus drains down the throat, making it sore, the natural response is to try to cough up the mucus, so it doesn’t get ingested into the lungs. During sinus issues, the body tends to create an inordinate amount of mucus.  Once the nasal passages can drain properly and the body isn’t dealing with excess mucus, the cough should also subside.

Dizziness:  If the sinus infection is severe, an individual is likely to become dizzy.  The sinuses can affect the ears and a person’s equilibrium. Thus, he/she can easily feel dizzy and even nauseated as a result.  However, if this symptom occurs, home remedies are not working¸ and it is definitely time to see a doctor.

Fatigue:  When the body is working overtime to ward off an infection, fatigue is a natural symptom. A sinus infection is no exception.  Many people cannot work or play, until the symptoms of the illness have abated.  The age old advice to get rest and drink plenty of fluids definitely applies to sinus maladies.

Reduced Senses:  For individuals with sinus infection symptoms, their senses of taste and smell are likely almost non-existent.  Subsequently, food might be just about as appetizing as trying to eat a piece of cardboard.  Eating may become a necessity, rather than a treat for the taste buds.  However, it is vital to keep drinking liquids, even if the beverages don’t taste quite right.  The body needs to stay hydrated, in order to help the mucus evacuate. Hot soups and bullions are a good idea.  But, stay away from dairy products like milk.  They tend to encourage mucus buildup and the coughing that occurs, when the throat starts to feel clogged.

None of the sinus infection symptoms are easy to handle.  Some are more serious than others, and will need medical intervention to get rid of them.  Others will respond to good old home remedies like plenty of rest and fluids.  But, if the signs persist for more than a week, it’s time to see a doctor.  It’s time to make them go away.