If you are struggling with sinus infections, you are not alone. Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, are a widespread condition affecting approximately 31 million people in the U.S. each year, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

Sinus infections can be incredibly challenging, causing symptoms like stuffy noses, facial pressure and headaches. The condition can significantly impact your daily life, disrupting sleep and reducing productivity, and causing discomfort. 

There are many misconceptions about sinus infections, leading to confusion about how to treat and manage them. Stephen Warman, MD, an ear, nose and throat specialist at Summit Health clarifies some common myths and facts about sinus infections.

1. Myth: The common cold and sinus infections have the same symptoms.

Fact: While the symptoms of a common cold and sinus infection can overlap, they are not identical. A common cold typically includes symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat and mild cough.

On the other hand, “a sinus infection is characterized by more severe symptoms such as green or yellow nasal discharge, facial pain and pressure, especially around the eyes and forehead and a reduced sense of smell,” says Dr. Warman. These symptoms are not typical of a common cold and can indicate a more serious condition that may require medical attention.

2. Myth: Sinus infections do not cause headaches.

Fact: “Many patients are surprised to learn that sinus infections can indeed cause headaches. The inflammation and congestion in the sinus cavities can create a deep, persistent pain, especially in the forehead, cheeks or bridge of the nose,” says Dr. Warman. “Understanding the severity of your sinus infection is essential for effective treatment and relief.”

3. Myth: You can easily spread a sinus infection from person to person.

Fact: Sinus infections themselves are not contagious. The confusion stems from the fact that viruses or bacterial infections, such as the common cold, can easily spread and sometimes lead to sinus issues.

“While you can’t spread the sinus infection itself, you can catch a cold from someone that could develop into a sinus infection.” explains Dr. Warman.

4. Myth: Sinus infections will go away on their own.

Fact: Most sinus infections must be treated with medication, most commonly antibiotics. There are two main types: acute and chronic. Acute sinusitis typically resolves within a few days or weeks. However, symptoms that last longer than eight weeks are classified as chronic, which can cause significant discomfort. 

While some mild acute cases may improve on their own, most acute sinus infections and chronic sinus infections often require medical attention. chronic sinus infections should be evaluated by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further allergy testing. If treatments like antibiotics, decongestants or nasal sprays are unsuccessful, sinuplasty may be considered pending the results of a sinus CT scan.

“Chronic sinusitis results from a combination of factors,” explains Dr. Warman. “It could be due to anatomical factors that make individuals more susceptible to chronic infections, such as narrowed or obstructed drainage pathways, or the presence of polyps. Conditions like cystic fibrosis can also contribute to chronic sinusitis. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to sinus infections.”

5. Myth: Sinus surgery is painful and invasive.

There are now a variety of minimally invasive options for sinus surgery that offer quicker recovery, less pain and better results. Surgical solutions can lead to better breathing, reduced sinus pressure and an improved quality of life.

Patients with chronic or severe sinus issues often turn to surgery to find relief when other options have failed. If you suffer from frequent sinus infections talk to your doctor about surgical solutions and whether they are right for you.

There are a variety of minimally invasive options that can help open up the nasal passageways and. Some of the most common include:

• Balloon sinuplasty: This in-office procedure opens blocked sinus passages with an inflated balloon. Patients can usually return to normal activities the following day.
• Cryotherapy: This technique can help alleviate nasal dripping by using cold temperatures to interrupt the nerve in the back of the nose.
• Endoscopic sinus surgery: A minimally invasive technique that accesses the sinuses through the nostrils without incisions. It can lead to fewer infections, better breathing and a stronger sense of smell.
• Radiofrequency ablation: This procedure shrinks tissue causing blockage, reducing congestion and sinus pressure.

“Medicine has made considerable progress. Minimally invasive procedures like balloon sinuplasty and radiofrequency ablation can help to enhance the quality of life for patients with chronic sinusitis and eliminate the need for a long recovery,” says Dr. Warman.

Understanding the myths and facts about sinus infections is important for effectively managing and treating this common condition. If you experience persistent or recurrent sinus symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Our team at Summit Health can help. We have a range of specialists including ear, nose and throat (ENT) physicians to help you understand your options and find relief to your sinuses.