What happens if you have a sinus infection for months?

Sinusitis — also known as a sinus infection — is, for the most part, a bacterial infection caused by inflammation of the sinuses. Chronic and recurring long-lasting sinusitis can render you incapacitated and quickly eat up your sick days.

What is the longest a sinus infection can last?

Most cases of acute sinusitis last about a week, but this type of short-term sinus infection can last up to four weeks. If you suffer from a sinus infection that lasts longer than 12 weeks despite treatment from your doctor, it’s considered chronic sinusitis.

Can a sinus infection linger for months?

With chronic sinusitis, the tissues inside your sinuses become inflamed and blocked for a long period of time due to swelling and mucus buildup. Acute sinusitis only happens for a short time (usually a week), but chronic sinusitis can last for months. Sinusitis is considered chronic after at least 12 weeks of symptoms.

Can you have a sinus infection for years?

Sinusitis symptoms that last for more than 12 weeks could be chronic sinusitis. In addition to frequent head colds, your risk for chronic sinusitis also goes up if you have allergies. “Chronic sinusitis can be caused by an allergy, virus, fungus, or bacteria and can go on for months or even years,” says Dr.

Can you have a sinus infection for 3 months?

Chronic sinusitis occurs when the spaces inside your nose and head (sinuses) are swollen and inflamed for three months or longer, despite treatment. This common condition interferes with the way mucus normally drains, and makes your nose stuffy.

How do you know if a sinus infection is serious?

When a Sinus Infection May Be Dangerous

1. Swelling. If you experience swelling around your eyes, this can be a red flag for severe sinusitis.
2. Pain. When there is excessive pain in your eyes, ears, head or throat, you likely have a severe sinus infection.
3. Fever.
4. Feeling Disoriented.
5. A Persistent Infection.

Why is my sinus infection not going away with antibiotics?

A bacterial or viral infection can also trigger the condition. The infection is often low grade. The bacteria confine themselves in stubborn “biofilms,” making it difficult for your immune system or antibiotics to find and attack them.

Why do sinus infections take so long to go away?

Chronic (long-term) sinusitis is usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. These infections may be difficult to treat. If chronic sinusitis is not cured after trying two or more different antibiotics, you may want to talk with your doctor about surgery or allergy testing.

Is it possible to have a sinus infection for 2 months?

Can a sinus infection last 2 months?

Why won’t my sinus congestion go away?

Your stuffy nose that just doesn’t seem to go away may be a sign of an underlying issue like allergies. Untreated allergies can cause chronic sinusitis with and without nasal polyps. Fortunately, chronic nasal congestion is very treatable. The first step is to visit a health care provider.

Do sinus infections eventually go away on their own?

Sinus infections are very common. Symptoms normally go away on their own within 10 days. OTC medications and natural remedies may help relieve your symptoms. If your symptoms last more than 10 days, talk to your doctor.

Will my sinus infection clear up on its own?

Sinus infections often clear up on their own within a week or two . When they do not, the infection may be bacterial, and antibiotics can help. Although rare, fungal sinus infections can be severe and hard to treat. With proper medical care, most people with sinusitis recover well.

What is the best natural remedy for a sinus infection?

Eucalyptus oil can help open up the sinuses and get rid of mucus. A study published in The Laryngoscope found that the main ingredient in eucalyptus oil, cineole, helped people with acute sinusitis recover faster. Make sure you only use food-grade essential oils.

What are the dangers of a sinus infection?

Osteomyelitis. Osteomyelitis is a bone infection commonly caused by bacteria or fungus.

Eye Socket Infection. Almost all sinus infections will affect the eyes with minor pain,sensitivity and throbbing due to pressure behind the eye.

Meningitis.