Sinus Infection Treatment in Corpus Christi, TX
Few things derail your day like a sinus infection. The telltale pressure builds around your nose and eyes, your head feels heavy and foggy, and a runny or congested nose makes it hard to focus. At Corpus Christi ENT Sinus & Allergy, Dr. Todd M. Weiss identifies what’s driving your sinus symptoms and provides targeted treatment for both short-lived and long-standing sinus infections.
When Should You Worry About Sinus Pain?
Sinus infections often announce themselves a day in advance — facial pressure creeps in, your head begins to ache, and your nose starts to run. Most are caused by fluid that becomes trapped in the sinus cavities, which is why an ordinary cold can sometimes evolve into a drawn-out sinus infection. Because the ears, nose, and throat are interconnected, a sinus infection left unchecked can affect your wider health, both now and down the road.
What Is Sinusitis?
Inflammation is the immune system’s normal defense. When the body detects an injury, infection, or allergen, it sends extra white blood cells to the area, and the increased blood flow produces swelling. Sinusitis is simply inflammation of the sinus cavities, and it frequently accompanies allergies or viral and bacterial infections. When that inflammation becomes excessive, however, it can block the sinuses and create a damp environment where infection thrives. If your sinus pain and pressure linger after your other cold symptoms fade — or persist for months — it’s worth coming in for an evaluation.
Signs of a Sinus Infection
Beyond pain and pressure around or behind the eyes, a sinus infection may bring on:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Fever
- Yellow, brown, or otherwise discolored mucus
- A sore throat caused by postnasal drip
- Jaw pain
- Bad breath
Sinus Infection or Sinus Headache?
Because the symptoms overlap, it can be hard to tell a sinus headache from a migraine or tension headache — and not every headache traces back to the sinuses. Many patients arrive convinced they have a sinus headache only to learn another type of headache is to blame. Sinus headaches typically intensify when you bend forward or lie down, and the key to relief is calming the underlying sinus swelling and inflammation. Dr. Weiss reviews your symptoms and medical history, performs a physical exam, and may use nasal endoscopy or an in-office CT scan to confirm whether your sinuses are the source. Learn more on our sinus headaches page.
Will a Sinus Infection Clear on Its Own?
Many sinus infections resolve without treatment, but if your sinus pressure lasts more than a week — or you develop signs of infection such as fever or discolored mucus — it’s time to schedule a visit. Untreated infections can spread to the ears or throat, and a brief appointment lets us determine whether antibiotics are warranted.
Chronic Sinus Infections and Sinusitis
When sinusitis and sinus infection symptoms persist for 12 weeks or longer despite treatment, additional care may be needed. Chronic sinus infections can stem from allergies, growths or obstructions within the sinus cavities, or stubborn infections. The symptoms mirror those of acute infections but often occur without a fever. Prolonged inflammation isn’t good for any part of the body, and the longer a sinus infection continues, the greater the risk to your health — so if your symptoms keep returning, reach out to us.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If sinus pressure, congestion, or pain has lingered for more than a week, we can help you find relief. Call us at (361) 320-6130 or connect with us online to schedule a sinus evaluation.