Most sinus infections are caused byviruses, but a small number are triggered by bacteria.
Only bacterial sinus infections benefit from antibiotic treatment, but there are other symptom-relieving treatments for viral sinus infections.
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When Can a Sinus Infection Go Away on Its Own?
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There is no cure for a viral sinus infection.
For many people, it’s suitable to allow bacterial sinus infections to run their course.
In fact, 75% of bacterial sinus infections will clear up without antibiotic treatment.
However, it’s advisable to treat the symptoms that come along with a sinus infection.
It’s important to take note if symptoms improve but then get worse.
This often is a sign of a bacterial sinus infection.
Managing symptoms for that long can have a negative effect on a person’s daily life.
This means that a different antibiotic or longer antibiotic treatment is needed.
When Doesnt a Sinus Infection Go Away on Its Own?
While most sinus infections will go away on their own, a small percentage will not.
These sinus infections are called chronic sinus infections.
A healthcare provider will need to treat a chronic sinus infection.
They will assess the cause and determine the best route of treatment.
For some people, this may requiresurgeryto widen the sinus opening or removenasal polyps.
Sometimes, a sinus infection lingers and becomes worse.
This can lead to serious complications that need medical attention.
Contact a healthcare provider to get a prescription.
The pharmacist to whom the prescription is sent should explain any potential side effects and screen for medication interactions.
COVID-19 Testing for Sinus Infections
COVID-19 is a viral respiratory infection that can cause a sinus infection.
A healthcare provider may want to test someone for COVID-19 to determine the cause of the infection.
This can help guide their treatment plan.
Summary
Sinus infections are painful and can interfere with daily life and activities.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Sinus infection.
UpToDate.Patient education: acute sinusitis (sinus infection) (beyond the basics).
