It’s safe to say that many of us have heard of sinusitis before, but do you even know what it is or if you’ve had it?

Sinusitis is, perhaps, better known as a sinus infection, and nearly 31 million Americans get one each year. Our AFC Urgent Care Sevierville team further elaborates on this type of infection below, so keep reading!

What Is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis (sinus infection) is an inflammation of the tissue that lines the sinuses, which are the four paired cavities (spaces) in the head that are connected by narrow channels.

When sinuses are healthy, they’re filled with air, they trap harmful particles and they filter them out through the nose. However, when they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause sinusitis. Viruses cause most sinus infections, but bacteria and some allergens can also cause sinus infections. We’ve listed the common symptoms below.

Common Sinusitis Symptoms

• Postnasal drip
• Discolored nasal discharge (greenish in color)
• Nasal stuffiness or congestion
• Tenderness of the face (particularly under the eyes or at the bridge of the nose)
• Frontal headaches
• Pain in the teeth
• Coughing
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Bad breath

What Are Sinus Headaches?

Sinus headaches can be a symptom caused by sinusitis. Oftentimes, though, migraines are mistaken as sinus headaches.

When a sinus infection occurs, the sinuses become clogged with fluid, which cause pressure and pain in the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose. This pain usually gets stronger when you move your head suddenly or strain. At the same time, you might have other sinus symptoms, such as a runny nose, fever, or the feeling of fullness in your ears.

Common Sinus Headache Symptoms

• Fever
• Stuffy nose
• Thick, colored mucus discharge from the nose
• Feeling of fullness in the ears
• Swollen or puffy face

Do you have further questions about sinusitis? If so, don’t hesitate to reach out to our AFC Urgent Care Sevierville team today!