A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is an inflammation of the tissues lining your sinuses. Sinus infections come with unpleasant side effects like facial pain and a stuffy or runny nose. The common cold, fungi, allergies, bacteria and other viruses are common causes of sinus inflammation. Let’s explore two of these causes—viruses and bacteria—and how their treatments differ.
Viral Sinus Infections
Viruses are tiny organisms that infect cells in hosts like humans, animals and plants. They’re made up of a small bit of DNA or RNA inside a protective shell called a capsid. A virus must enter a living cell and take control of it to make more copies of itself. This can harm or kill the cells, which is what causes illnesses like colds, flu or sinus infections.
Viruses are the most common cause of sinus infections. When a virus causes your sinus infection, it should last less than two weeks. You can help minimize your symptoms by taking short-term decongestants or antihistamines and doing daily saline nasal rinses.
Bacterial Sinus Infections
Bacteria are microscopic, single-celled living organisms. There are both good and bad types of bacteria. Good bacteria make up your microbiome and help keep your body healthy. You may have heard people talking about taking pro or prebiotics to care for their microbiome and safeguard their health. Bad bacteria is any bacteria that can make you sick. For example, Streptococcus bacteria can give you strep throat.
Bacteria is the most common cause of chronic sinusitis (lasting longer than three months). In cases of bacterial sinus infections, your specialist will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection and stop it from spreading.
Preventing Recurring Sinus Infections
If you frequently develop sinus infections, there’s likely an underlying cause. Structural abnormalities, allergies or nasal polyps can all lead to recurring or chronic sinus infections. Your ENT specialist may recommend a Balloon Sinuplasty to widen the sinus passages and reduce inflammation.
To learn more about managing your sinus infections, contact Alpine Ear Nose & Throat PC today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.