Will my sinus infection clear up on its own?

The first few weeks of the common cold aren' fun, but the acute sinusitis that can develop afterwards doesn't help either. Unfortunately, sinus congestion and the common cold go hand in hand. Acute sinusitis frequently is caused by the common cold, but also can be caused by allergies and bacterial and fungal infections.

Sinus infection causes

Sinus infections are caused when the cavities around your nasal passages become inflamed and swollen. This inflammation eventually interferes with drainage and causes mucus to build up. This tends to get annoying, because it makes breathing through the nose difficult. It also affects the area around your eyes and face, and can cause a throbbing headache.

Antibiotics and sinus infections

When a sinus infection hits, it seems worse than what you remembered from the last time you had one. This may give you the idea that you need antibiotics, but most clear up without them. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses and aren't recommended within the first week of developing a cold. About 70% of sinus infections go away within two weeks without antibiotics.

Consider these other forms of treatments instead of antibiotics:

• Decongestants
  These medications are available for over-the-counter purchase. Be careful to only take these medications for a few days at most, as they can cause the return of more severe congestions.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
  Aspirins, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve temporary pain.
• Saline nasal spray
  This is used to spray into your nose several times a day to rinse your nasal passages. It can help to prevent and treat inflammation.

Antibiotics only will be needed if the infection is severe, recurrent or persistent.

The likelihood of bacterial infection increases when:

• Symptoms last seven days or more, particularly when symptoms initially improve and then worsen.
• Mucus is thick and yellow or green in color.
• There is facial or sinus tenderness, particularly if it's worse on one side of the face.
• Pain is present in the upper teeth and is worse on one side of the face.

If the infection becomes severe, recurrent or persistent, contact your provider.

Read more about your sinuses:

• Chronic sinusitis: More than a stuffy nose
• Solve chronic stuffy nose with intense cooling
• Your sinus headache may not be what you think
• Unlocking the mystery of your sinuses: Answers to 8 common questions

By Mayo Clinic Health System staff