Debbie Are you suffering from a sinus infection? If so, you’re not alone.
Many people develop a sinus infection every year. In fact, they’re one of the common medical conditions in the US.
While a sinus infection can be mildly uncomfortable for a few days, for others, it can be a raging infection that can linger for weeks or even months. If your symptoms have persisted for longer than normal and your primary care won’t meet you, consider urgent care.
Are you not sure if urgent care for sinus infection is right for you? Keep reading to learn more.
When to Seek Urgent Care for Sinus Infection?
If you’re experiencing mild symptoms such as congestion, mild headache, and a runny nose, you might be able to get rid of a sinus infection at home. Sinus infections are typically treatable at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter decongestants or saline nasal sprays like this product.
However, you might want to consider going to urgent care if you are experiencing:
Severe Pain
If you are experiencing severe pain due to a sinus infection, it is likely best to go to urgent care. This is because it could indicate a more serious infection. It may also be an indication of complications that may require medical attention.
High Fever
A high fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C) could indicate that your body is struggling to fight off the infection, and you may need medical intervention. High fever can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as a sinus infection that has spread to the brain or other organs. This needs to be looked at and treated immediately.
Difficulty Breathing
If you are having difficulty breathing due to a sinus infection, urgent care may be a good option. The experienced medical staff at an urgent care facility can administer a physical exam and provide a proper diagnosis. Additionally, they can provide you with medication to help alleviate your symptoms and get you on the road to recovery more quickly.
Worsening Symptoms
Worsening symptoms can be an indicator of when to seek out sinus care. This could include an increase in nasal congestion, sinus headaches, fever, and an increase in facial pain. These symptoms can develop rapidly and need to be attended to by a medical professional.
Underlying Health Conditions
If you have pre-existing health conditions that could make a sinus infection more serious, such as a compromised immune system or chronic respiratory conditions, seeking medical attention might be wise.
Persistent Symptoms
A sinus infection can worsen if left untreated, leading to more severe symptoms and a longer recovery time. For instance, if the sinus infection does not clear up in 10 days or if the symptoms become more severe after starting home remedies, it is important to get medical attention.
Benefits of Visiting Urgent Care for Sinus Infections
Visiting urgent care for sinus infections offers many advantages, such as fast detection of the infection and swift treatment. For those struggling with a sinus infection, urgent care provides effective and timely relief. Visit your nearest urgent care today to receive the appropriate treatment for your symptoms.
For more information and advice aside from sinusitis, check out the rest of our blog.
