Can urgent care treat sinus infections? Here’s what they can (and can’t) do

Sinus infections are one of the most common reasons people seek medical attention, especially during allergy season or after a lingering cold. While many sinus infections clear up on their own or with over-the-counter remedies, some cases require a doctor’s evaluation. That’s where urgent care comes in. Whether you’re dealing with facial pressure, congestion, or a painful headache that won’t go away, urgent care clinics can help diagnose and treat many sinus infections. But they also have their limits. Read on to learn when urgent care is a good option and when you might need to see a specialist instead.

What is a sinus infection?

Sinus infections—also called sinusitis—occur when your sinus cavities become inflamed, often due to a viral or bacterial infection. This common condition can cause pressure, congestion, and facial pain, making it uncomfortable but usually treatable.

Causes of sinus infections

A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, occurs when the tissue lining the sinus cavities becomes inflamed and swollen. This inflammation can block normal mucus drainage, leading to a buildup that creates pressure and discomfort. Most sinus infections start with a viral upper respiratory infection, like the common cold, but they can also be triggered by bacterial infections or allergens such as pollen, dust, and mold.

Common symptoms of a sinus infection

The most common symptoms of a sinus infection include:

• Nasal congestion and facial pain or pressure, especially around the forehead, cheeks, and eyes.
• Many people also experience headaches, particularly those that worsen when bending over.
• Thick yellow or green nasal discharge is common, along with postnasal drip that can cause coughing or a sore throat.
• Fatigue and a general sense of feeling unwell often accompany the infection, and some individuals may develop a mild to moderate fever.
• In more severe cases, tooth pain or bad breath may also occur due to blocked drainage and bacterial overgrowth.

How long does a sinus infection last?

Acute sinusitis typically resolves within four weeks and is often caused by a viral infection. Subacute sinusitis lasts between four and twelve weeks and may follow an unresolved viral infection or develop into a secondary bacterial infection, according to MedlinePlus. They also note that chronic sinusitis typically lasts longer than twelve weeks and often involves ongoing inflammation rather than infection, frequently associated with underlying issues such as allergies, structural problems, or prolonged exposure to irritants.

Can urgent care diagnose a sinus infection?

Yes, urgent care providers can diagnose a sinus infection during a single visit. The process typically begins with a thorough review of your symptoms, including how long they’ve lasted and whether they’ve worsened over time — all key indicators that help distinguish between a viral cold and a bacterial sinus infection.

A physical exam in which the provider may gently press on your forehead, cheeks, and around your eyes to check for sinus tenderness can also help with a diagnosis. Urgent care providers may also examine the inside of your nose for swelling, redness, or thick nasal discharge. In some cases, your provider may ask about seasonal allergies or exposure to irritants to rule out non-infectious causes.

While imaging or lab tests are rarely needed, urgent care clinicians are well-equipped to identify sinus infections and recommend appropriate treatment, including antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected.

Do I need antibiotics for a sinus infection?

Not all sinus infections require antibiotics. In fact, most cases are caused by viruses—often the same ones responsible for the common cold—and these typically resolve on their own within 7 to 10 days without the need for prescription medication. During this time, over-the-counter remedies, nasal rinses, and rest can help ease symptoms.

However, if your symptoms last longer than 10 days, suddenly worsen after initial improvement, or become severe (such as intense facial pressure or high fever), a bacterial infection may be the cause. In those cases, MedlinePlus explains that antibiotics may be necessary to clear the infection and prevent complications.

What can urgent care do for a sinus infection?

Urgent care clinics are a convenient and effective option for evaluating and treating sinus infections. These providers can determine whether your infection is likely viral or bacterial and recommend appropriate treatment based on your symptoms.

If antibiotics are needed, typically for bacterial infections lasting more than 10 days or with severe symptoms, urgent care clinics can prescribe them on-site. However, treatment usually goes beyond antibiotics. You may also receive recommendations for:

• Nasal corticosteroid sprays to reduce inflammation and promote sinus drainage
• Antihistamines if allergies are contributing to your symptoms
• Decongestants and over-the-counter pain relievers like pseudoephedrine or ibuprofen to ease pressure and discomfort
• Saline nasal rinses or sprays to help clear mucus and reduce congestion
• Warm compresses, hydration, and rest to support healing naturally

If your symptoms do not improve after 7 to 10 days, or if you experience frequent or recurring sinus infections, MedlinePlus notes that your urgent care provider may refer you to a specialist such as an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor for further evaluation.

When you should skip urgent care and see a specialist

While urgent care is a great first stop for most sinus infections, some cases require specialized attention:

• If your symptoms last longer than 12 weeks, you may have chronic sinusitis—a condition that likely won’t improve with standard treatments and needs further evaluation.
• Additionally, if you experience recurrent sinus infections (four or more per year), it’s a sign that there may be an underlying issue such as structural abnormalities, chronic allergies, or immune system dysfunction.
• Urgent care providers may also refer you to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist if you report alarming symptoms like vision changes, confusion, or noticeable swelling around the eyes, which could indicate a more serious complication.

ENTs can conduct imaging tests, perform allergy assessments, and determine whether procedures like sinus surgery are necessary to restore proper drainage and prevent future infections, according to MedlinePlus.

Home remedies to manage sinus infections

For mild sinus infections or in the early stages of symptoms, home remedies can offer significant relief and may even help prevent the need for antibiotics, according to MedlinePlus. They note the following:

• One of the most effective methods is using a humidifier to keep indoor air moist, which can soothe irritated nasal passages and promote better drainage.
• Saline nasal rinses—whether from a spray or a neti pot—can also help flush out mucus and allergens, reducing congestion and inflammation. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids thins mucus, making it easier to clear your sinuses.
• Over-the-counter options, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help relieve facial pain and pressure, while decongestants may help reduce nasal swelling.

Most importantly, rest allows your body to recover more efficiently. If symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures, it’s time to seek medical care.

Find urgent care near you for sinus infection treatment

If you're dealing with sinus pain, pressure, or lingering cold symptoms, don't wait it out—book a same-day appointment with an urgent care provider through Solv. With Solv, you can quickly find nearby clinics, view real-time availability, and skip the waiting room by checking in online.