So you’ve just gotten over a nasty cold and are excited about getting back to life and back to work. You head to bed, but wake up the next morning and realize that it could be coming back. Nasal congestion, a sore throat and a throbbing headache welcome you to a new day and you realize that you may have an acute sinus infection. Chances are you’ve gone through something like that, as it is how most acute sinus infections form, shortly after you recover from a cold or the flu. Acute sinus infection symptoms can be annoying and aggravating, but luckily they are easily treated with easy home remedies.

What is an acute sinus infection?
Sinus infections are commonly divided into one of two groups, acute and chronic. An acute sinus infection is normally brought on after a cold or flu, and lasts 7 to 10 days. A chronic sinus infection, however, can last up to 12 weeks or longer and people who suffer from chronic sinusitis normally endure several infections throughout the year.

What are the symptoms of an acute sinus infection?
Symptoms of an acute sinus infection include:

- Stuffy nose
- Sneezing and/or coughing
- Headache
- Postnasal drip
- Thick yellow or green discharge from the nose

As your nasal passages swell it will lead to a stuffy nose and block off the entrances to the sinuses, known as ostia. This leads to an excess of mucus that accumulates in your sinuses causing an intense pain around your eyes, nose or cheeks. Postnasal drip is also prominent, which can lead to a sore throat and in some cases, bronchitis.

At first signs, seek help!
If you notice any symptoms or signs that you may be getting a sinus infection, it’s important that you seek help and treat it properly. The worst thing you can do is to leave it be to clear up on its own. You can purchase a variety of over-the-counter medications, including decongestants and sinus medication. It is ideal to see your doctor, as they will be able to supply you with antibiotics and other prescription medications.

Take steps to help prevent infection:
There are a number of ways that you can help prevent infection. Using a Neti-Pot, or other nasal irrigation kit, you can keep your nasal passages and sinus cavities clear and moist by flushing them out with a warm saline (saltwater) solution. You can purchase one at your local drugstore or by visiting http://www.activesinus.com/. Of course, the surest way to avoid infection is by keeping your immune system strong and healthy by maintaining a healthy diet and staying active.

If your symptoms persist longer than 7 – 10 days it is highly recommended that you see your doctor to receive proper treatment. Several pharmacies specifically treat sinusitis, one of which being Sinus Dynamics, who has made their name the leader in treating sinus problems. To find out more about the ways that Sinus Dynamics can help you, visit them online at http://www.sinusdynamics.com/ or by calling, toll-free, 1-877-447-4276.