Sinus infections are much more common during the fall and winter seasons. If you’re experiencing a headache alongside lots of congestion, that’s not uncommon!

Our AFC Urgent Care Centennial team provides further information on sinus infections and sinus headaches below, so keep reading.

What Is a Sinus Infection?

The sinuses are air-filled spaces inside the forehead, cheekbones and behind the bridge of your nose. When they get inflamed, which is usually because of an allergic reaction or an infection, they swell, make more mucus and the channels that drain them can get blocked with fluid. When a blockage occurs, it can cause a sinus infection.

We’ve listed the most common symptoms of a sinus infection below.

Common Sinus Infection Symptoms

• Thick, yellow or greenish mucus from the nose (runny nose) or down the back of the throat (postnasal drainage)
• Blocked or stuffy nose that causes difficulty breathing through the nose
• Pain, tenderness, swelling and pressure around the eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead that worsens when bending over

What Are Sinus Headaches?

Sinus headaches are a common symptom of sinusitis, or a sinus infection.

When a sinus infection occurs, the sinuses become clogged with fluid, which cause pressure and pain in the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose. This pain usually gets stronger when you move your head suddenly or strain. At the same time, you might have other sinus symptoms, such as a runny nose, fever or the feeling of fullness in your ears.

Common Sinus Headache Symptoms

• Fever
• Stuffy nose
• Thick, colored mucus discharge from the nose
• Feeling of fullness in the ears
• Swollen or puffy face

It can be difficult to know what your symptoms are indicating about your health. If you have questions or need general medical care, don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC Urgent Care Centennial center today!