“Can a sinus infection go away on its own?”

Yes, a sinus infection can often go away on its own, especially if it's caused by a virus. Your body's immune system can usually fight off the infection without the need for antibiotics. However, if your symptoms are severe, last more than 10 days, or if you start feeling better and then get worse again, it's a good idea to see a doctor. They may recommend treatments to help relieve your symptoms or antibiotics if they suspect a bacterial infection.

Common symptoms of an infection include pain or pressure over your sinuses typically around your eyes, cheeks, forehead. Other symptoms include thick nasal discharge, fever, loss of taste, difficulty with breathing through the nose.

You are particularly at risk if you have seasonal allergies, nasal polyps, deviated septum. Exposure to tobacco smoke, airpollution, and other airborne irritants could increase the likelihood of a sinus infection.

Remember to talk to your doctor if your symptoms dont improve.

People

The majority of sinus infections are caused by viruses. So the answer is yes, a sinus infection can resolve on its own as your body addresses the viral infection. We do not have many treatments directed at viruses, so therapy is usually to help alleviate bothersome symptoms while your body takes care of the actual infection. Sometimes sinus infections can be caused by bacteria or other pathogens that may need some assistance to resolve with treatment like antibiotics. We are typically concerned about a sinus infection that may require treatment when someone has had symptoms without improvement for longer than 7-10 days or has a high fever or has some underlying health issues that make them more susceptible to infections.