Question by : How long can a sinus infection possibly last?
I’ve had post-nasal drip for 4 months and I think I have a sinus infection. I went to an allergist and I am not allergic to anything.
Best answer:
Answer by Lili Smith
The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the skull (behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheeks, and eyes) that are lined with mucus membranes. Healthy sinuses contain no bacteria or other germs. Usually, mucus is able to drain out and air is able to circulate.
When the sinus openings become blocked or too much mucus builds up, bacteria and other germs can grow more easily.
Sinusitis can occur from one of these conditions:
* Small hairs (cilia) in the sinuses, which help move mucus out, do not work properly due to some medical conditions.
* Colds and allergies may cause too much mucus to be made or block the opening of the sinuses.
* A deviated nasal septum, nasal bone spur, or nasal polyps may block the opening of the sinuses.
Sinusitis can be:
* Acute — symptoms last up to 4 weeks
* Sub-acute — symptoms last 4 – 12 weeks
* Chronic — symptoms last 3 months or longer
Acute sinusitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection in the sinuses that results from an upper respiratory tract infection. Chronic sinusitis refers to long-term swelling and inflammation of the sinuses that may be caused by bacteria or a fungus.
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I suffer from acute sinusitis. If left untreated a sinus infection can last for months. You will need antibiotics to get over the infection.
“I went to an allergist and I am not allergic to anything.” — Everyone is allergic to something. It may be that you just weren’t tested for your allergen but it’s there. Post nasal drip is a sign of a histamine reaction (allergy). Ask the allergist if you should be using an antihistamine and decongestant daily to control the PND. By the way, how do you know you have PND?
“How long can a sinus infection possibly last?” — If it resolves by itself, from 2 to 4 weeks. If yours is allergic sinusitis, it could take longer. But don’t hope it will go away, have this treated appropriately.
“I think I have a sinus infection” — If you think you have sinusitis, see an ENT to have this confirmed and treated or ruled out.
See the ENT doc and optimize your diet to optimize your immune system.
Of course dont smoke.