How to Identify a Sinus Infection

If you've had a headache, runny or stuffy nose, and other symptoms, you may wonder if it all points to a cold, allergies or a sinus infection. How can you tell the difference and what can you do about it? The following information discusses symptoms related to sinus infections and treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Mirror
• Tissue
• Thermometer

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Instructions

How to Tell if You Have a Sinus Infection

• 1

  You may find it hard to breathe out of your nose since a cold, allergies and a sinus infection are accompanied by inflammation of the nasal cavity. You could also experience postnasal drip or thick mucus. Blow your nose and see if the mucus has a greenish tinge to it. If it does, this is a good indicator that you may have a sinus infection.

• 2

  Look in the mirror to see if you have puffiness under your eyes. Press on your closed eyelids, cheekbones and bridge of nose. If you're experiencing pain or pressure in any of these areas this may also point to a sinus infection.

• 3

  Other symptoms of a sinus infection could include fatigue, cough and a fever. Using the thermometer, take your temperature to see if it's elevated and how many degrees above the normal 98.6 it is.

• 4

  If you believe you have a sinus infection, call your health care practitioner to set up an appointment for a checkup. Leaving an infection untreated can lead to damage of the mucous lining and bones surrounding the sinus area.

• 5

  Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for 3-28 days to treat the infection. Acute sinus infections are more easily treated than chronic sinus infections that may require a longer period of antibiotics and, in some cases, surgery to remove polyps or to open closed sinus passages. For the first few days before the antibiotics take effect by killing off the bacteria, your doctor may suggest an over-the-counter nasal decongestant spray or antihistamine.