Sinus infections are no fun for kids and parents alike. KidsStreet has all the details on the causes, symptoms, and treatment of sinus infections as well as how we can help your little one heal and feel better fast!
What is a Sinus Infection?
Sinusitis is an infection of the sinuses, namely the maxillary sinus which is the hollow space behind your face.
There are four types of sinus infections, including acute sinusitis, subacute sinusitis, recurrent sinusitis, and chronic sinusitis.
Types of Sinus Infections
Acute sinus infections last up to four weeks at most and are the most common for kids to experience. This type can usually be easily treated at-home and will respond to treatment quickly.
Subacute sinus infections last longer and are typically slower to respond to treatment methods. These can be caused by bacteria and may only respond to prescribed antibiotics.
Recurrent sinusitis happens when a child has four or more sinus infections in a year. Oftentimes, other issues like allergies or asthma cause recurrent sinusitis.
Chronic sinusitis can occur when previous infections are not treated properly, and the symptoms can last over twelve weeks. This type is uncommon in children.
Symptoms of Sinus Infections in Kids
When your kiddo has a sinus infection, the nasal membranes become inflamed and cause uncomfortable symptoms like:
Is your child experiencing symptoms of sinusitis? KidsStreet would love to help! We diagnose and treat sinus infections in our urgent care services for kids.
Treating Sinus Infections in Kids
Most sinus infections can be treated with at-home methods! The best practices for treating sinusitis in kids are:
- Use over-the-counter nasal sprays.
- Take kids decongestants (Robitussin, Sudafed, etc.).
- Place a humidifier in your childs room at night.
- Administer over-the-counter pain medications (Children’s Tylenol, Children’s Motrin, etc.).
If your child has a stubborn bacterial sinus infection that isn’t responding to at-home treatment, their provider may prescribe antibiotics.
Preventing Sinusitis in Children
There are a few ways you can reduce your child’s risk for frequent sinus infections like:
- Keep your child away from second-hand smoke.
- Use nasal washes or saline sprays to keep your child’s sinuses moist.
- Use a humidifier around the house in drier months.
- Limit time in pools treated with chlorine.
- Wash your and your child’s hands frequently.
- Avoid touching the mouth, nose, and face before washing your hands.
Turn to KidsStreet Urgent Care
Worried your child has a sinus infection? You’re not alone! KidsStreet is here to help.
To visit one of our kid-focused clinics, register online. You and your little one can wait from home or in the car until we are ready to see you. We’ll send you a text when it’s time to head to the clinic.
Forget to register ahead of your visit? No problem! KidsStreet welcomes walk-ins to our clinic each and every day. However, please be aware that walk-ins may experience longer in-clinic wait times than those who register online. Walk-ins are added to the same queue as those that register.