Sinus Infections

When your sinuses become inflamed and swollen, you can rely on experienced nurse practitioner Elena Vale-Saquieres, DNP, FNP-C, for prompt care for sinus infections (or sinusitis). Whether you’re dealing with sinus drainage, pressure, congestion, or discomfort, Elena helps relieve these symptoms at Orlando Medical Associates in Orlando, Florida. For tailored care, call Orlando Medical Associates or book your visit online today.

What causes sinus infections and who’s at risk?

Viruses or bacteria usually cause sinus infections, although fungi can sometimes be the cause. Viral sinus infections often develop after you’ve had a common cold and may improve without antibiotics. 

You can develop a bacterial infection if mucus becomes trapped in your sinuses, creating an environment ideal for bacterial growth.

Several factors can make you more vulnerable to sinusitis, such as:

• Seasonal or environmental allergies
• Frequent colds
• Nasal polyps
• A deviated septum
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Conditions that affect the immune system

If you deal with recurring sinus infections, you may benefit from an evaluation to identify underlying causes and contributing factors.

What are the symptoms of a sinus infection?

Your symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity of your infection. Common symptoms include:

• Nasal congestion or a stuffy nose
• Facial pain or pressure
• A reduced sense of smell
• A cough
• Sore throat
• Thick nasal drainage
• Fatigue
• Bad breath
• Headache
• Pressure in your ears

Talk to Elena if you have symptoms that persist, worsen after initially improving, or are particularly severe. She can assess your symptoms and determine whether they fit a viral illness, bacterial sinus infection, allergies, or another condition.

How are sinus infections treated?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Elena can help you manage the congestion and discomfort of many viral sinus infections with supportive care like:

• Rest
• Fluids
• Saline nasal rinses
• Humidified air
• Appropriate medications

Antibiotics don’t treat viral infections, but they may help if Elena suspects or diagnoses you with a bacterial sinus infection. She can determine whether you need prescription treatment after evaluating your symptoms and reviewing your medical history.

If you want to overcome frequent sinus problems, your treatment may also involve managing allergies, addressing nasal obstruction, or evaluating other underlying conditions. Orlando Medical Associates can provide convenient evaluation and treatment for sinus symptoms, including same-day care when you need it most.

If sinus symptoms are severe, persistent, or interfering with your daily activities, schedule your consultation with Elena. Prompt evaluation can help identify the cause of your symptoms and set you on a path to feeling your best. 

Call Orlando Medical Associates or book your visit online today for sinus infection relief.