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What Causes Sinus Infections?

Sinus infections (also known as acute or chronic sinusitis) are caused by swelling and inflammation in the sinus cavity. A sinus infection may start out as a basic cold, with similar symptoms including nasal congestion, itching, and a runny nose. Acute sinusitis is sinus infectionusually triggered by a common cold or seasonal allergies, and may be treated with over the counter medication like antihistamines and decongestants, or resolve on its own. Chronic sinusitis can last as long as eight weeks, and often results from an infection, or growths in the nasal passage, and may require prescription medication and medical treatment.

It can be difficult to distinguish between a cold and a sinus infection in the early stages, but the most common signs of a full blown sinus infection are:

  • headache
  • facial pain (ear, forehead, back of eyes)
  • runny nose
  • nasal congestion
  • fever
  • fatigue
  • tenderness and swelling around the nose and eyes
  • temporary loss of smell
  • phlegm
  • throat irritation

Sinusitis Treatment in Sun City West

When symptoms persist or are more severe than what seems reasonable for a cold, it may be necessary to see an otolaryngologist (head and neck/ear, nose and throat doctor) for treatment. The doctors at Sun City West based Arizona ENT can prescribe antibiotics for chronic sinusitis when caused by a bacterial infection, or recommend nasal irrigation depending on the patient and the symptoms.

Causes of a Sinus Infection

Sinusitis can develop from a common cold or flu, or from other sources including:

  • Hay fever/seasonal allergies
  • Non-allergy related rhinitis
  • Nasal polyps (growths in the lining of the nose)

Contact a Nose Doctor in Sun City West

If you are suffering from signs and symptoms of a sinus infection that have not responded to at home or over the counter medication and persist for several weeks, contact an ear, nose, and throat doctor at Arizona ENT by calling (623) 975-1660 to schedule an appointment today.


Our Locations:

623-975-1660

14510 W. Shumway Dr. ,  Ste 101,  Sun City West, AZ 85375

10503 W. Thunderbird Blvd.,  Ste 104,  Sun City, AZ 85351

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