What Is a Sinus Infection and Why Won't It Go Away?
A sinus infection (sinusitis) occurs when the hollow spaces around your nose and eyes, your sinuses, become inflamed and blocked, trapping mucus and creating the perfect environment for bacteria or viruses to grow. In Spring, TX, our seasonal pollen, humidity, and weather swings make sinusitis one of the most common reasons adults visit a primary care clinic.
Many people make the mistake of waiting it out or self-treating with over-the-counter decongestants. While mild viral sinusitis may resolve on its own in 7–10 days, bacterial sinus infections require antibiotic treatment from a medical provider. Untreated, they can spread to nearby structures, including your ears, eyes, and, in rare cases, your brain.