Sinus infection treatment
Diagnosing a sinus infection shouldn't be a DIY project. Carbon Health is here to help. Talk to a doctor online or book an appointment at one of our clinics near you today.
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Help us collect the most relevant info about your symptoms in minutes.
Chat with our friendly providers
They'll talk you through your concerns, prescribe any medications, and make outside referrals, if necessary.
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Continuous care after your visit
Your provider will contact you directly about any follow-up appointments, exams, or tests.
Common Sinus Infection symptoms & treatment
A sinus infection is when your nasal passages become inflamed or infected and is commonly caused by allergies or the common cold.
Pick Appointment Timesinus infection symptoms
- Nasal inflammation
- Thick, discolored discharge from the nose
- Runny, stuffy nose
- Drainage down the back of the throat
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Pressure behind the eyes, cheeks, nose, or forehead
- Sore throat
How To Treat A Sinus Infection
Book a virtual visit to talk with a healthcare provider about your sinus infection symptoms and concerns. They will ask you a series of questions, prescribe the necessary medications, and refer you to the nearest Carbon Health clinic for in-person examinations and testing if necessary.
Get treated right from your phone.
Available in the App Store and Google Play
- Book same-day appointments
- Talk to a provider in real time
- Get care from the comfort of home
- Most insurance accepted
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- Allergies
- Cold & flu
- Headaches
- STD & STI
- UTI
- Sinus Infection
- Sore Throat
- Respiratory infections
- Skin rashes & moles
- Sports injuries
- Travel health
- Upset stomach
We can treat your common symptoms virtually.
Pick Appointment TimeFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How can we help you?
What is the fastest way to get rid of a sinus infection?
Most of the care involves symptom management. We recommend taking over the counter pain medications such as Tylenol or NSAIDs to reduce pain. Mucolytics such as Guaifenesin can be used to help thin the mucous and oral decongestants may also be recommended.
Other tips:
- Rinse your nose and sinuses a few times a day (i.e. neti pot).
- Consider using a humidifier or stand in a hot shower to help loosen up the congestion.
- Consider taking an antihistamine to decrease mucous.
- Your provider may also recommend nasal sprays (i.e. nasal sprays may include steroids, antihistamines, decongestants, saline, ipratropium bromide).
Can you get rid of a sinus infection without antibiotics?
The vast majority of the time sinus infections do not require antibiotics since they are caused by viruses and not bacteria. Antibiotics only work for bacteria. The concern about overprescribing antibiotics for viral infections is that a person can build up resistant strains of bacteria in their body and then the traditional antibiotics will no longer work when you have a true bacterial infection. The good news is your body is well equipped to fight off viruses, even in your sinuses.
There are some cases where sinus infections are caused by bacteria and merit antibiotic use. If you experience symptoms beyond 7-10 days with fevers and a lot of pain then your provider may consider antibiotics. Also, if your symptoms have been improving but you suddenly experience a worsening of symptoms or develop new symptoms, this may also be a sign of a possible new bacterial process or complication.
Are there specific sinus infection causes?
The vast majority of acute sinus infections are caused by common viruses found in the environment.
Bacterial acute sinusitis only occurs in 0.5-2% of cases. The most common bacteria that cause sinusitis arestreptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis.
How long does a sinus infection typically last?
What's the difference between a cold and sinus infection?
How does Carbon Health virtual care work?
After introducing themselves, they’ll confirm and review the information submitted during the appointment booking. This will include your chief complaint, symptoms selected, and some overall questions about your current health.
The provider will then create a unique care plan based on your conversation and diagnosis, and send it to you through the app.
- Summarizes what was discussed
- Lays out next steps for care or treatment
- Often provides relevant educational materials
- May include a link for booking an appointment at clinic near you if needed
- Includes any prescriptions listed under your care plan, with a convenient ‘Fill’ button next to the list, so you can select your preferred pharmacy.
What if you can't give me a treatment plan or need to see me in person?
Are you able to prescribe medication and antibiotics?