Related Blog: Ending Allergy and Sinus Suffering
A doctor may diagnose a sinus infection if two out of four primary symptoms are present:
A sinus infection may cause additional symptoms, including:
Often sinus infections will clear up on their own, but if you have symptoms that last more than seven days, it is time to see a doctor. You should see a doctor immediately if you suffer from any of the following symptoms that could be life threatening:
Failure to treat severe sinus infections can lead to extremely dangerous infections such as meningitis or cellulitis. If the infection spreads to your eye sockets, you are at risk for eye damage or permanent blindness. There is also a risk of permanently losing some or all of your ability to smell.
If you suspect you might have a sinus infection, it is better to err on the side of caution by scheduling a visit to see your doctor than to take the risk of the infection spreading.