Changing seasons isn't always pleasant. Although it is often exciting to experience the onset of spring, seasonal changes also mean allergies, or even worse, a sinus infection. Read below to learn why and how sinus problems arise, and contact our San Antonio, TX, ENT office for treatment.

What are sinuses?

Our sinuses are an interconnected system of hollow cavities in your skull, which includes:

• Maxillary sinuses
• Frontal sinuses
• Ethmoid sinuses
• Sphenoid sinuses

Simply put, sinuses are cavities in your facial bones, forehead, cheekbones, and behind the nose. Sinuses are also part of your upper respiratory tract, from the nose to the throat.

What causes a sinus infection?

A sinus infection, which also known as sinusitis, may be a result of viral, or bacterial infections, in some cases. An individual usually contracts a virus, like in the case of a common cold, for example, which leads to bacterial colonization in nasal cavities. It's the bacterial colonies that cause blockage and inflammation.

What is chronic sinusitis?

If you're suffering from chronic sinusitis, you need to call your doctor. Chronic sinusitis is when the inflammation lasts more than three months and is usually caused by allergies, abnormal sinus anatomy, or dental problems.

A sinus infection is when your nasal cavities become inflamed. Symptoms include:

• Pain in your forehead or between the eyes
• Toothaches
• Inadequate nasal fluid drainage (leading to congestion)
• Pressure that accompanies nasal blockage
• Difficulty breathing

Symptoms may also include a persistence or worsening of the symptoms mentioned above for more than 10 days. Only an ENT can determine if you're suffering from a sinus infection. So make sure to contact your San Antonio doctor if you are concerned.

How do you avoid a sinus infection?

There are a few steps you can take to avoid sinusitis, such as maintaining a better lifestyle that includes:

• Avoid smoking
• Seeking early treatment to avoid sinus inflammation
• Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water
• Using a humidifier if the air is too dry for you

If you're suffering from chronic sinusitis, you may need surgery or long-term medication, which is why you need to visit your doctor. If you have further questions or concerns in regards to sinus infections or if you want to schedule an appointment with your San Antonio, TX, ENT, call (210) 957-1115 today!