Everything to Know About Using Cephalexin for Sinus Infection

Sinusitis is a common ailment, causing discomfort and frustration due to its unpleasant symptoms. Fortunately, medical experts recommend many treatment options, including Cephalexin. Medical experts have tested this antibiotic well, and it offers reliable relief from sinusitis symptoms like nasal congestion and facial pain or pressure. This article comprehensively explores Cephalexin, including how it works in the body to treat bacterial infections. We’ll also look at possible side effects and precautions that should be taken when using Cephalexin for sinus infection.

What Is Cephalexin?

Cephalexin is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by bacteria in the body. It is especially effective in treating sinusitis caused when bacteria infiltrate the sinuses and cause inflammation. This antibiotic stops the growth of the bacteria, allowing the immune system to clear the infection.

When using Cephalexin for sinus infection, it is essential to note that it is not a cure-all; it will only treat the infection and not the underlying cause. Therefore, addressing any underlying conditions or lifestyle factors contributing to the infection is crucial.

However, using Cephalexin can relieve sinusitis symptoms like facial pain or pressure, sore throat, and nasal congestion.

Can you use Cephalexin for sinus infection?

Cephalexin is a popular antibiotic in the drug class called ‘cephalosporin antibiotics’ that is used to treat streptococcal infections. It’s commonly prescribed for urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and skin structure infections and can also be used for sinusitis.

Cephalexin targets a specific type of bacteria and inhibits its growth and reproduction. This stops the infection from spreading further and allows the body’s immune system to fight off the disease more effectively.

Cephalexin is generally safe and well tolerated, although common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

It is also important to note that this medication is ineffective against viral or fungal infections, so it is important to speak with a doctor and get a diagnosis before using it. In some cases, alternative medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, and corticosteroids may be recommended for sinusitis.

Overall, Cephalexin is a safe and effective treatment for bacterial sinusitis. However, it is crucial to consult a doctor before taking any medication and carefully follow their instructions.

How good is Cephalexin for sinus infection?

Cephalexin is an effective treatment option for sinusitis that can relieve symptoms like nasal congestion and facial pain or pressure. However, while Cephalexin is generally well-tolerated, it can cause adverse effects, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This medication can also cause a number of allergic reactions.

Therefore, talking to your doctor before taking Cephalexin is essential to ensure it is safe. Additionally, be sure to take all the prescribed doses and finish the entire course of treatment, even if your symptoms ease. Doing so will help ensure the infection is fully treated and prevent further complications.

How can Cephalexin treat sinusitis?

Cephalexin is an effective antibiotic for treating bacterial sinusitis. It interferes with the bacteria’s cell wall synthesis, preventing the bacteria from reproducing and spreading. This allows the body’s immune system to kill off the bacteria and, subsequently, reduce the symptoms of the infection.

In most cases, a single course of Cephalexin is enough to clear the infection and relieve the patient.

It is important to remember to finish the entire course of Cephalexin, even if the symptoms of the infection seem to have subsided. This ensures the bacteria is completely eradicated and further complications can be avoided.

How long does it take Cephalexin to work?

When taken orally, Cephalexin’s active ingredient will quickly enter the bloodstream and start working to kill bacteria that cause the infection. Generally, the drug takes one to three days to alleviate sinusitis symptoms.

However, the full effects of Cephalexin may only be realized after seven days of treatment. During this period, the antibiotic cleanses the infection and reduces the number of bacteria in the sinuses.

In general, it is recommended that individuals take Cephalexin for seven days, even if symptoms are improving, to ensure that the infection does not return.

It is also important to note that Cephalexin may interact with other medications and should always be taken cautiously.

Cephalexin is a powerful and effective antibiotic when used to treat sinusitis. The drug can start working in as little as one day but may take up to a week to completely clear up the infection.

Therefore, before taking Cephalexin, speaking with a doctor or pharmacist is essential to discuss any potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

By doing so, people can ensure they are taking the proper steps to get prompt, safe, and effective relief from their infection.

What Conditions does Cephalexin Treat?

Cephalexin is a popular antibiotic commonly used to treat sinusitis. This medication works by killing the bacteria that cause the infection and reducing the severity of the symptoms.

It is a widely recommended broad-spectrum antibiotic that can treat many bacterial infections, not just those in the sinuses.

This includes:

• Skin infections
• Bone infections
• Urinary tract Infection
• Middle ear infections (otitis media)

Additionally, Cephalexin can treat certain types of bronchitis and pneumonia.

When taking Cephalexin for sinusitis, it is vital to use the medication exactly as prescribed. This means taking the drug for the specified time, even if the symptoms have improved.

If Cephalexin is not taken as prescribed, the infection may not be completely cured and can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. For this reason, it is crucial to finish the entire course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor.

Additionally, it is essential to inform your doctor of any other medications you may be taking, as Cephalexin can interact with some drugs.

What Forms Does Cephalexin Come In?

Cephalexin is available in many forms, including capsules, tablets, and oral suspensions. The capsule form of Cephalexin is typically 500mg and should be taken orally with food or milk.

The tablet form of Cephalexin is also 500mg and should be taken orally with food or milk. Finally, the liquid suspension form of Cephalexin is 250mg per 5ml and should be taken by mouth with food or milk.

When treating sinusitis with Cephalexin, it is recommended that a patient take the medication for at least 10 days. After that, a doctor may prescribe a higher dose of Cephalexin for more severe infections.

Patients must take the entire course of the medication even if they start feeling better. This ensures that all bacteria causing the infection are eliminated and the condition is fully treated.

If a patient stops taking the medication too soon, some bacteria may survive, and the disease may return.

Side effects of Cephalexin for sinusitis

Cephalexin is an effective antibiotic for treating sinusitis caused by certain bacteria. It works by killing off bacteria in the nasal passages, reducing inflammation, and allowing the sinuses to heal.

While Cephalexin can be a helpful treatment for sinusitis, it has some potential side effects.

Common side effects of Cephalexin for sinusitis include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea (caused by clostridium difficile)

Other less common side effects include:

• Rash
• Itching
• Hives

In rare cases, Cephalexin can cause more severe side effects like jaundice, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.

If you feel any adverse effects while taking Cephalexin, immediately contact your doctor.

Drug Interactions

Cephalexin can interact with certain medications, so it’s important to let your doctor know all your medicines before starting this antibiotic. In addition, by understanding the side effects of Cephalexin and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your treatment.

How much Cephalexin should I take for sinusitis?

When treating sinusitis, Cephalexin is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics. The standard recommended dosage for adults is 250 to 500 mg, taken twice daily. However, this dosage may be increased to 500 mg three times a day in severe cases.

The dosage for children will depend on their weight and age, so it is essential to discuss with your doctor the best dosage for your child.

Should I take Cephalexin with or without food?

Cephalexin can be used with or without food, and taking the entire course of the medication as prescribed is crucial.

Can Cephalexin treat viral infections?

It is important to note that Cephalexin should not be used to treat a viral infection and should only be taken when prescribed by a doctor.

Using this medication indiscriminately may increase the patient’s risk of antibiotic resistance and other adverse effects.

Side effects may include nausea, headache, and diarrhea. Anyone experiencing worrying symptoms or an adverse reaction should seek medical attention immediately.

How long does Cephalexin take to work for sinusitis?

Cephalexin is an antibiotic medication that is commonly prescribed to treat sinusitis. It works by inhibiting bacterial growth, which helps reduce symptoms like facial pain, pressure, and congestion.

The effects of Cephalexin can usually be seen within just a few days after starting treatment, though it may take up to a week before the infection is completely cleared up.

Therefore, it is essential to take the entire course of Cephalexin as prescribed by your doctor for it to be effective. Depending on the severity of the infection, this could be as long as 10 days.

Is Cephalexin safe?

Cephalexin is generally a safe drug, despite some potential side effects. It is also important to note that Cephalexin can interact with other medications and may be contraindicated in some cases.

If you have any worries or questions about using Cephalexin, please discuss them with your doctor.

Nevertheless, with the proper dosage and careful monitoring, Cephalexin can effectively treat sinusitis.

Can You Get Cephalexin Online?

In addition to being available in pill form, Cephalexin can also be purchased online. While it is essential to consult a doctor before taking any medication, many online pharmacies offer Cephalexin with a prescription, making it easier for those who may have difficulty visiting a doctor in person.

Before buying online, however, it is essential to check that the pharmacy is reputable and has a valid license.

Additionally, it is vital to review the potential side effects of Cephalexin and consult with a doctor or pharmacist if any side effects occur.

Read Next: Can You Use Clindamycin for Sinus Infection?

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cephalexin is an effective treatment for sinusitis due to its ability to inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation.

However, while this antibiotic can be purchased online, it is essential to consult a doctor before taking any medication and to check that the pharmacy is reputable.

Additionally, it is crucial to be aware of the potential side effects of Cephalexin and to consult a doctor or pharmacist if any adverse effects occur.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Uses, Side Effects, Dosages, Contra-indications, Warnings, Interactions & More

When you have a common bacterial infection such as a middle ear infection, respiratory tract infection, or urinary tract infection, there’s a good chance your doctor will prescribe a drug called cephalexin.

Cephalexin monohydrate (Keflex) is a prescription drug used to kill the bacteria causing these infections. It is similar to penicillin and is among the top 100 most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States.

In this article, I’ll explain all about cephalexin, including how it works, common conditions it’s used to treat, side effects, and if you can get cephalexin online. 

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What Is Cephalexin?

Cephalexin is a type of antibiotic called a cephalosporin. It works to prevent the growth of the bacterial cell wall. This keeps bacteria from multiplying and helps eradicate an infection.

Cephalexin is considered a broad-spectrum antibiotic because it’s effective in fighting many common bacteria, including:

• Streptococcus pneumoniae 
• Streptococcus pyogenes
• Haemophilus influenzae
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Moraxella catarrhalis 
• Escherichia coli 
• Proteus mirabilis
• Klebsiella pneumoniae

What is it used for?

Cephalexin is prescribed to treat infections caused by bacteria, including: 

• Respiratory tract infections
• Sinusitis
• Otitis media (middle ear infections)
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Genitourinary infections (urinary tract infections)
• Endocarditis prevention

Can You Get Cephalexin Online?

In order to get cephalexin, you first need a prescription. You can get this online through your healthcare provider.

Once you receive the prescription, you can purchase cephalexin online. Before buying any medicine on the web, though, consider these tips from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA):

• Only use sites that require a prescription and have a pharmacist available for questions.
• Only buy prescription drugs from licensed US pharmacies.
• Don’t share your credit card information or other personal information unless the site is secure.

What Forms Does Cephalexin Come In?

Cephalexin is available as a liquid, capsule, or tablet taken by mouth. If you take the liquid form, store it in the refrigerator and shake it well before using.

Do not store the tablets or capsules in the bathroom. Instead, keep them in a dry place at room temp. When it’s time for a dose, swallow the pill whole with a glass of water. 

What Are Common Doses of Cephalexin?

Doctors prescribe different doses of cephalexin depending on the patient’s age, infection, and severity of their condition. Below are some of the most common doses of cephalexin for different infections.

Upper respiratory tract infections (including tonsillitis)

• Adults: 1-4 grams (g) daily, divided in 2-4 doses (generally 250 milligrams (mg) taken orally every 6 hours or 500 mg taken orally every 12 hours) for 7-14 days.

• Children and adolescents: 25-50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day taken orally in 2-4 divided doses for 7-14 days.

Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs)

• Adults: 250 mg taken orally every 6 hours or 500 mg taken orally every 12 hours for 7-14 days. 

• Children and adolescents: 25-50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day taken orally divided in 2-4 doses for mild to moderate infections. For severe infections, 50-100 mg per kilogram of body weight per day taken orally divided in 3-4 doses.

Skin and skin structure infections (including impetigo) 

• Adults: 1-4 g daily, divided in 2-4 equal doses (generally 250 mg take orally every 6 hours or 500 mg taken orally every 12 hours) for 7-14 days.  

• Children and adolescents: 25-50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day taken orally in 2-4 divided doses for 7-14 days.

Otitis media (middle ear infection)

• Children and adolescents: 75-100 mg per kilogram of body weight per day taken orally in 3-4 divided doses. 

Bone and joint infections

• Adults: 1-4 g daily, divided in 2-4 doses (generally 250 mg taken orally every 6 hours or 500 mg taken orally every 12 hours) for 7-14 days. 

• Children and adolescents: 75-100 mg per kilogram of body weight per day taken orally in 3-4 divided doses. 

Genitourinary infection (including urinary tract infection)

• Adults: 1-4 g daily, divided in 2-4 doses (generally 250 mg taken orally every 6 hours or 500 mg PO every 12 hours) for 7-14 days.

• Children and adolescents: 25-50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day taken orally in 2-4 divided doses for 7-14 days.

Side Effects

As with all medications, cephalexin can cause adverse effects, with diarrhea being most common. Other rare, but not uncommon, side effects include:

• Abdominal pain
• Indigestion
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Vaginal discharge or itchiness
• Increased creatinine 

Cephalexin and other cephalosporin antibiotics such as cefaclor, cefadroxil, and cefazolin can also cause a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Symptoms include hives, trouble breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor right away if you think you are experiencing an allergic reaction or other more serious side effects after taking cephalexin. 

How to Take Cephalexin

Cephalexin comes as an oral capsule, tablet, or liquid that can be taken with or without food. Depending on the condition being treated, adults usually take it every six or 12 hours for 7-14 days.

Either way, take cephalexin around the same times every day.

If you miss a dose of cephalexin, take that missed dose as soon as possible, unless you are close to your next dosing time. In this case, skip the missed dose and wait until the next one. Never double up doses.

Contraindications

Be sure your healthcare provider knows if you have any of the below conditions or sensitivities, as cephalexin can lead to serious complications in these cases:

• Colitis
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Seizure disorders
• Hypersensitivity to penicillin

Breastfeeding or pregnant women should also consult with a physician before using cephalexin, as should individuals undergoing dialysis.

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Drug interactions

Cephalexin can negatively interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of side effects.

Ask your doctor whether it would be safe for you to use cephalexin if you take any of the following:

• Metformin
• Furosemide
• Warfarin or other blood thinners
• Probenecid

Warnings

Specific groups of people should be especially sure to consult their doctor before taking cephalexin.

• People with kidney problems: If you have kidney problems or a history of kidney disease, you may not be able to clear this drug from your body. This may increase the levels of cephalexin in your body and cause more side effects. 

• Pregnant women: Cephalexin is a pregnancy category B drug. That means animal studies have shown no risk to a fetus, but there’s insufficient evidence to show if the drug poses a risk to human fetuses. 

• Breastfeeding women: Cephalexin is passed through breast milk. Talk to your doctor about the potential risks for your infant.

• Seniors: The risk of kidney problems increases as you age. Reduced kidney function can cause drugs to stay in the body for a longer time, increasing the chance of side effects.

• Those who are allergic to beta-lactam medications: Do not take cephalexin. You could have a serious allergic reaction.

In case of emergency or overdose

In case of an overdose, call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online. If you collapse, have a seizure, have trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened, have someone immediately call 911.

Get a Cephalexin Prescription Today with K Health

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is cephalexin used for?

Cephalexin is used to treat bacterial infections in various parts of the body. This includes respiratory tract infections, ear infections, skin infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria.

How long does cephalexin stay in your system?

You’ll pee out more than 90% of cephalexin within eight hours of taking it. However, if you have reduced kidney function, this process can take longer.

What are the side effects of cephalexin?

The more common side effects of cephalexin oral capsules include diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. Most of these side effects should go away on their own. If they persist, contact your doctor.

How quickly does cephalexin work to treat an infection?

Cephalexin starts to work right away and becomes the most effective one hour after taking it. That being said, it can take up to 48 hours after taking the drug to start seeing your symptoms improve.

K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

K Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions,
and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

• Cephalexin. (revised 2016.).
  https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682733.html#:~:text=Cephalexin

• Cephalexin. (n.d.).
  https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Cephalexin

• Cephalexin – Drug Summary. (n.d.).
  https://www.pdr.net/drug-summary/Keflex-cephalexin-1565#3

• Cephalexin Capsule Cephalexin Powder, for Suspension. (n.d.).
  https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=19307ff0-71de-477b-965d-ea243e5ede3a

• Cephalexin Drug Usage Statistics, United States, 2008 – 2018. (n.d.).
  https://clincalc.com/DrugStats/Drugs/Cephalexin

Treatment and prevention of acute sinusitis

In most cases, acute sinusitis does not require treatment, as it is caused by a viral infection (runny nose). As a rule, self-medication is sufficient for a speedy recovery and smoothing out the symptoms.

Treatment to relieve symptoms

Your doctor may recommend medication to relieve the symptoms of sinusitis. For example, drugs such as:

• Nasal saline spray to be injected into the nose several times a day to clear the nasal passages.
• Nasal corticosteroids. Corticosteroid nasal sprays can prevent or reduce inflammation. Examples of drugs: fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), budesonide (Rinocort Aqua), triamcinolone (Nasacort AQ), beclomethasone (Beconase AQ).
• Decongestants. These preparations are available over the counter without a prescription and include drops, tablets, and nasal sprays. These drugs are used for several days, otherwise they can increase nasal congestion.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers include aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol and others) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin and others). Children should not be given aspirin.

Antibiotics

• Antibiotics are not usually needed to treat acute sinusitis.
• Antibiotics cannot treat acute sinusitis caused by a viral or fungal infection.
• Most cases of acute bacterial sinusitis can be treated without antibiotics.
• Antibiotics are generally used to treat severe, recurrent, or prolonged cases of bacterial infection.
• Antibiotics for acute sinusitis caused by a bacterial infection: amoxicillin, clarithromycin, etc. If the prescribed drug does not help against the infection, or the sinusitis recurs, the doctor may prescribe a different antibiotic.
• If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics for you, you need to complete the full course of treatment. This means that you need to take them for 10 to 14 days, even if the condition has already improved. If antibiotics are stopped early, symptoms may return.

Antifungals

In rare cases, acute sinusitis is caused by a fungal infection. Then intravenous drugs such as amphotericin B or voriconazole must be used. The dose of the drug, as well as how long you need to take it, depends on the severity of the infection and how quickly the symptoms of the disease are weakened.

Immunotherapy

If your sinusitis is accompanied by allergies, your doctor may prescribe allergen-specific immunotherapy, which will reduce your body’s response to allergens and help improve the condition.

Recommendations for home treatment

The following recommendations will help you weaken the symptoms of sinusitis:

• Observe the bed or home regimen. This will help your body fight infection and get better sooner.
• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or juice. This will make the mucus thinner, which will help it drain. Avoid drinks containing caffeine or alcohol as they dehydrate the body. In addition, alcohol can worsen swollen sinuses and nose.
• Steam your nose. Breathe the steam over a bowl of hot water, covering your head with a towel, keeping your face directly above the steam. Or take a hot shower (if you don’t have a fever), breathing warm, moist air. This will help relieve pain and help the mucus pass.
• Apply warm compresses to the face. To relieve facial pain, cover your nose, cheeks, and eyes with a towel soaked in warm water.
• Flush nasal passages. Use a specially designed spray bottle (eg Sinus Rinse) to rinse your nasal passages.
• Sleep with your head elevated. This will help improve passage from the sinuses and reduce nasal congestion.

Prevention of acute sinusitis

th ways. Minimize contact with people who have a cold. Wash your hands frequently with soap, especially before eating.

You can get more detailed information about the treatment and prevention of acute sinusitis from the otolaryngologists of the Health 365 clinic in Yekaterinburg.

Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)

Otolaryngologist

ENT for children

ENT for patients older than 70

Appointment with endoscopy

Diagnostics

Ambulatory

Hospital operations

Diagnosis and treatment of acute sinusitis (sinusitis, frontal sinusitis, ethmoiditis , sphenoiditis) in Yekaterinburg in children and adults:

• st. Forge, 83
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Treatment of frontal sinusitis – articles from the company Elamed

Frontal sinusitis – inflammation of the frontal sinuses located in the frontal bone.

Along with sinusitis (inflammation of the maxillary (maxillary) sinuses), it is a widespread disease. Due to the anatomically difficult position of the frontal sinuses in terms of intervention and the likelihood of severe complications, it is necessary to consult a doctor in a timely manner and begin treatment.

Causes

Pathogenic microorganisms – streptococci and staphylococci, Haemophilus influenzae and moraxella are the direct cause of frontal sinusitis. In the last decade, there has been a high incidence of frontal sinusitis of fungal and viral etiology.

The starting factor for the development of any sinusitis (inflammation of one of the paranasal sinuses) is a respiratory infection, especially a protracted course. The natural processes of cleansing and aeration of the nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses are disrupted, the work of local immune factors worsens, as a result of which a bacterial and fungal infection develops. This is the so-called rhinogenic mechanism for the development of frontal sinusitis.

Predisposing factors are also anatomical features (in children it is the narrowness of the sinuses and adenoid vegetations, in adults – deviated septum, polyps), which create prerequisites for the development of frontal sinusitis: even a slight edema against the background of banal rhinitis disrupts air exchange in the paranasal sinuses.

Symptoms

• Headaches in the front of the head, which are persistent and debilitating. Accompanied by a sensation of a foreign body, “bloating” and “bursting” in the forehead. Intense pain localized in the area above the eyebrows, as well as redness and swelling of the tissues on the affected side. Pain when pressed.
• Neuralgic pains radiating to the upper teeth, soft tissues of the face, throat, temples. Pain is associated with the involvement of the branches of the trigeminal nerve in the pathological process.
• Obstruction of nasal breathing, unilateral or bilateral.
• Purulent nasal discharge, often foul-smelling.
• Olfactory disorders.
• Cough, nausea, vomiting due to purulent secretions running down the back of the throat.
• Lachrymation, photophobia, swelling of the mucous membrane of the eye and the entire upper eyelid on the affected side.

A course with minor symptoms is possible, in which the only manifestation of frontal sinusitis is local pain in the brow from the affected sinus.

Complication of frontal sinusitis (rare): osteomyelitis of the frontal bone, secondary meningitis.

Classification

Downstream: acute and chronic frontal sinusitis.

Clinical forms: exudative, edematous-infiltrative.

Diagnosis

Frontal sinusitis is diagnosed and treated by general practitioners, pediatricians, internists and ENT doctors.

The main confirmatory method widely used in adult and pediatric practice is radiographic. Conventional radiography of the paranasal sinuses is more often used, but the “gold standard” of diagnosis is computed tomography – a more informative, but expensive method. Additionally, if appropriate equipment is available, ultrasound, digital diaphanography, etc. are prescribed.

Treatment

Contrary to the popular opinion among patients, according to which frontal sinusitis is treated only surgically, uncomplicated frontal sinusitis is treated with conservative methods. Medicines and methods of physiotherapy are used, as well as minimally invasive interventions that allow stopping the inflammatory process, improving the outflow of nasal discharge from the sinuses, and restoring aeration. Complicated frontal sinuses are corrected during surgical manipulations and surgical interventions.

Medicines

Antibiotics are used to eliminate pathogenic bacteria and are a prerequisite for effective treatment of any form of sinusitis. They are prescribed orally in the form of tablets, capsules and suspensions, by injection, also topically in the form of sprays.

Of all groups of antibiotics, penicillins (ampicillin, amoxicillin), cephalosporins (cephalexin, cefaclor, cefixime, ceftriaxone), macrolides (erythromycin, clarithromycin, azithromycin) are most often used. Also popular are antibacterial agents that are not classified as antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin). Taking into account the high resistance of modern microorganisms to antibiotics, inhibitor-protected drugs are prescribed – containing substances that block bacterial B-lactamases (enzymes that destroy the antibiotic molecule), for example, amoxicillin-clavulonate, cefoperazone + sulbactam.

Easy to use combined preparations eg thiamphenicol glycinate acetylcysteinate. It contains components with different effects, namely the topical antibiotic thiamphenicol + mucolytic (a substance that thins nasal mucus) acetylcysteine.

The most effective prescription of antibiotics, taking into account the sensitivity of microorganisms to them.

Glucocorticosteroids are hormonal drugs with a pronounced anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and anti-edematous effect. They are applied topically in the form of sprays (nasonex, flixonase). They may additionally contain an antibiotic in their composition (isofra).

Antihistamines reduce swelling and inflammation, especially of an allergic nature. They are presented in the pharmacy chain in a large assortment, ranging from the well-known diphenhydramine and suprastin, ending with more modern fenistil and erius. They have, in addition to tablet forms, for topical use in the form of drops.

Vasoconstrictor drugs – naphthyzinum, tizin, otrivin – allow to facilitate nasal breathing. This group also includes combined agents that allow not only to relieve swelling of the nasal mucosa due to narrowing of blood vessels, but also block the production of nasal mucus (otrivin complex).

To moisten the nasal mucosa, remove discharge from the sinuses, saline solutions are used. They are available both ready-to-use (aqualor, aquamaris, sialor) and in the form of powders that dissolve in boiled water (dolfin).

Non-drug treatment

Physiotherapeutic methods are used at the stage of recovery, after the acute inflammatory process has been stopped, body temperature has decreased, and nasal mucus outflow has normalized.

Their use improves the effectiveness of complex therapy and the general condition of the patient.

In order to obtain a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, laser therapy (red and infrared), ultrasound therapy are recommended. The procedures help to enhance cell metabolism, increase metabolic activity, stimulate regeneration processes and the immune response.

Methods of electrotherapy – galvanization of the collar zone, galvanization of brain tissue, franklinization – are used to obtain metabolic and analgesic effects.

Nasal electrophoresis with antibiotics and glucocorticoids is an effective treatment for sinusitis. The penetration of medicinal substances through the nasal mucosa under the influence of electric current is more complete than with electrophoresis, which is carried out through the skin. Positive results are observed from the first procedures.

Thermotherapy for frontal sinusitis (thermotherapy) is useful in terms of activation of local anti-inflammatory and immune processes. The procedures contribute to a more productive restoration of the mucosa and the complete elimination of the bacterial factor, reduce swelling of the nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses, restoring air exchange and epithelial functions (cleansing, bactericidal).

In case of chronic sinusitis, combined therapeutic courses are indicated with the use of several methods of physiotherapy against the background of drug treatment.

Surgery

Frontal sinus surgery is currently performed using the endoscopy technique . Interventions by an open method (trepanation of the frontal sinus, etc.) are not performed as primary operations, as they are traumatic, complications are often observed after execution, and the recovery period is long.

Endonasal drainage is considered advantageous as it is less traumatic. Various surgical techniques are used to provide the patient with a quick recovery and a minimum number of complications and recurrences of inflammation of the paranasal sinuses.

We also perform an operation to expand the fronto-nasal canal using a balloon method and other interventions.

Prophylaxis

There is no specific prophylaxis for frontitis.

It is recommended to consult a doctor in a timely manner in case of prolonged colds and frequent colds that occur with severe symptoms from the upper respiratory tract.