What types of nasal sprays are used for sinus infections. How do nasal sprays help clear nasal congestion. What are the potential side effects of using nasal sprays for sinus infections. When should you consult a doctor about your sinus infection symptoms.

Understanding Sinus Infections and Their Symptoms

Sinus infections, also known as acute sinusitis, can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. These typically include:

• Inflammation in the nasal passages
• Nasal congestion
• Postnasal drip
• Runny nose with green or yellow mucus
• Persistent cough
• Sinus pain and pressure

Are sinus infections always caused by bacteria? Not necessarily. While bacterial infections can lead to sinusitis, viral infections and allergies are also common culprits. Understanding the root cause of your symptoms is crucial for effective treatment.

Types of Nasal Sprays for Sinus Infection Relief

When it comes to managing sinus infection symptoms, nasal sprays are often a go-to solution. There are four main types of nasal sprays commonly used:

1. Corticosteroid nasal sprays
2. Nasal decongestant sprays
3. Sodium chloride (saline) nasal sprays
4. Cromolyn sodium nasal sprays

Each type of nasal spray serves a specific purpose in alleviating sinus infection symptoms. Can all these sprays be used interchangeably? No, they have distinct mechanisms of action and are suited for different aspects of sinus infection management.

Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays

Corticosteroid nasal sprays, such as Flonase and Nasacort, are considered the most effective for treating sinus infections. They work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can help alleviate congestion and promote drainage.

Nasal Decongestant Sprays

These sprays provide quick relief from nasal congestion by shrinking swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages. However, they should be used with caution due to the risk of rebound congestion with prolonged use.

Saline Nasal Sprays

Saline sprays help moisturize the nasal passages and can assist in flushing out irritants and excess mucus. They are generally safe for long-term use and can provide relief from dryness and congestion.

Cromolyn Sodium Nasal Sprays

These anti-inflammatory sprays are particularly useful for sinus infections triggered by allergies. They work by preventing the release of histamine and other inflammatory substances in the nasal passages.

The Mechanism of Nasal Sprays in Clearing Congestion

Nasal sprays play a crucial role in managing sinus infections by promoting drainage and reducing inflammation. How exactly do they work? The mechanism varies depending on the type of spray:

• Corticosteroid sprays decrease inflammation in blood vessels, facilitating fluid drainage from the nose
• Decongestant sprays constrict blood vessels, reducing swelling and congestion
• Saline sprays help thin mucus and moisturize nasal passages, promoting natural drainage
• Cromolyn sodium sprays prevent the release of inflammatory substances, reducing congestion caused by allergic reactions

Is nasal irrigation with saline solution as effective as using nasal sprays? While both methods can be beneficial, nasal sprays often provide more targeted relief and can be more convenient for regular use.

Potential Side Effects and Risks of Nasal Spray Use

While nasal sprays can be effective in managing sinus infection symptoms, they are not without potential risks. Common side effects may include:

• Burning or stinging sensation in the nose
• Increased mucus production
• Nasal dryness
• Sneezing
• Nausea (less common)
• Epistaxis (nosebleeds)

One of the most significant risks associated with certain nasal sprays, particularly decongestant sprays, is rebound congestion. This occurs when the nasal passages become dependent on the medication, leading to worsened congestion when the spray is not used.

Can long-term use of nasal sprays cause damage to the nasal passages? While most nasal sprays are safe when used as directed, prolonged use of decongestant sprays can potentially damage the delicate tissues in the nose. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions and not exceed recommended usage.

When to Consult a Specialist for Sinus Infections

While many sinus infections can be managed with over-the-counter treatments, there are instances where professional medical advice is necessary. You should consider consulting an allergist or ENT specialist if:

• Your symptoms persist for more than 10 days
• You experience recurring sinus infections
• Over-the-counter treatments provide little to no relief
• You develop severe symptoms such as high fever or vision changes
• You have a history of chronic sinusitis

A specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation, which may include imaging of your sinuses to identify any structural issues contributing to recurrent infections. In some cases, they may recommend additional treatments such as antibiotics or, in rare instances, surgery.

Should you immediately seek medical attention if you suspect a sinus infection? While most sinus infections are not emergencies, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider if your symptoms are severe or do not improve with home treatment within a week.

Proper Use of Nasal Sprays for Optimal Results

To maximize the benefits of nasal sprays while minimizing potential side effects, it’s important to use them correctly. Here are some tips for proper nasal spray use:

1. Gently blow your nose before using the spray to clear the nasal passages
2. Shake the bottle well before each use
3. Tilt your head slightly forward and insert the nozzle into one nostril
4. Aim the spray toward the outer wall of your nose, away from the septum
5. Inhale gently through your nose as you squeeze the bottle
6. Repeat in the other nostril if directed
7. Avoid blowing your nose immediately after using the spray

Is it necessary to use nasal sprays in both nostrils even if only one side feels congested? In most cases, yes. Using the spray in both nostrils ensures even distribution of the medication and can help prevent uneven relief of symptoms.

Alternative Treatments for Sinus Infections

While nasal sprays can be effective, they’re not the only option for managing sinus infections. Other treatments and remedies that may provide relief include:

• Steam inhalation or use of a humidifier to moisturize nasal passages
• Nasal irrigation with a neti pot or saline rinse
• Over-the-counter pain relievers for sinus pain and headaches
• Oral decongestants (used with caution and for short periods)
• Applying warm compresses to the face to alleviate pressure
• Staying hydrated to thin mucus and promote drainage
• Elevating the head while sleeping to facilitate sinus drainage

Can natural remedies like eucalyptus oil or apple cider vinegar effectively treat sinus infections? While some people find relief with these remedies, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before trying alternative treatments.

Preventing Sinus Infections and Promoting Nasal Health

Prevention is often the best approach when it comes to sinus infections. Here are some strategies to reduce your risk of developing sinusitis:

• Practice good hand hygiene to reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria
• Avoid known allergens if you have allergies that trigger sinus issues
• Use a humidifier in dry environments to keep nasal passages moist
• Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
• Manage allergies effectively with appropriate medications
• Stay hydrated to maintain healthy mucus membranes
• Consider getting a flu shot annually, as flu can lead to sinus infections

Is it possible to completely prevent sinus infections? While it’s not always possible to prevent every instance of sinusitis, especially those caused by viral infections, these preventive measures can significantly reduce your risk and frequency of sinus infections.

Understanding the proper use of nasal sprays and other treatments for sinus infections can help you manage symptoms more effectively and reduce the risk of complications. Remember, if you experience persistent or severe symptoms, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.

Should I Use A Nasal Spray For A Sinus Infection?

Nasal sprays are often used to soothe symptoms caused by a sinus infection or acute sinusitis. Symptoms of a sinus infection can include inflammation in the nose, congestion, postnasal drip, runny nose with green or yellow mucus, cough, sinus pain and more. There are four main types of nasal sprays: corticosteroids, nasal decongestants, sodium chloride, and cromolyn sodium. 

Corticosteroid and sodium chloride nasal sprays are used to help soothe allergy symptoms such as a stuffy nose. Nasal decongestants relieve nasal congestion in the upper respiratory tract. Cromolyn sodium is an anti-inflammatory medication helpful in treating sinus infections caused by allergies. One of our allergists can determine which spray will best treat your symptoms.

Do Nasal Sprays Treat Sinus Infection?

Treating a sinus infection means unblocking and draining the sinuses. Corticosteroid nasal sprays such as Flonase and Nasacort are the best source for treatment because they help reduce swelling in the nasal passages. It’s best to keep the nasal passages clear because nasal congestion can block the drainage of your middle ear space,  causing an ear infection.  

Most sinus infections can be treated with nasal sprays and antibiotics.  Sometimes your doctors may add oral medications as well. If you have recurring sinus infections, you should see one of Allergist/Immunologists to see if you have allergies or if you have a defect in your immune system that is predisposing you to sinus infections. Your doctor may also want to do in-office imaging of your sinuses to see if you have a structural issue that is affecting your sinuses, leading to chronic sinusitis or recurrent sinusitis. In rare cases, you may need surgery to treat recurring sinus infections. One of our allergists will determine your course of treatment. If they determine you need surgery, they will recommend an experienced  ENT specialist near you.

How Does a Nasal Spray Clear Nasal Congestion?

Nasal sprays help drainage of mucus from your nasal passages. The topical steroids can also decrease the inflammation of your blood vessels and help empty fluids from your nose. That’s why they are commonly used to help treat sinus infection symptoms. All nasal sprays do not work the same way. Some of these nasal sprays can be addictive and with regular use of these sprays, you’ll need increasing dosages to relieve your stuffiness. So, it’s important to use nasal sprays as instructed by our allergists to minimize side effects.

Side Effects of Nasal Sprays

Along with rebound congestion and epistaxis (bloody nose), nasal sprays can cause other side effects such as:

• Burning
• Increased mucus
• Dryness in the nose
• Sneezing
• Nausea

If you experience any of these side effects after using a nasal spray, we recommend discontinuing use of them. Then, visit one of our Board-Certified Allergists for a new treatment plan. We believe in same-day treatments to get you feeling better fast.

Meet the Physician Collaborator

Dr. Morris Nejat is an allergist and immunologist that specializes in hay fever, asthma, sinusitis, and food allergies. He is board-certified with the American Board of Allergy and Immunology and the American Board of Pediatrics. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Nejat by calling 212-686-4448 or book an appointment online.

5 Ways You’re Making Your Sinusitis Worse

Sinus infections are never fun. Especially since they commonly occur after other illnesses like the cold or flu. Often, sinus infections last for about a week and then tend to go away. But for many people, their sinus infection can last longer and become worse. When this occurs, you may have chronic sinusitis and should visit your sinus specialist as soon as possible.  Detroit Sinus Center specializes in treating patients with balloon sinuplasty in Southfield and Allen Park who are suffering from sinusitis. As Southfield’s sinus infection experts, our ENT specialists see many patients come in with sinus problems. Some of these sinus issues are exacerbated by common errors people make while they have a sinus infection. Here are five of the most common things people do when they have a sinus infection that make it worse.

You’re Using Nasal Spray Too Much

Over the counter nasal sprays work great in alleviating sinus infection pressure in the short term, but can have lasting effects if not properly used. The main chemical in nasal spray can cause your sinus infection to get worse! If you have had a sinus infection for over a week and are still using nasal decongestant spray, call our Southfield ENT specialists immediately to make an appointment.

Your Air Is Too Dry

This is especially true in the colder months when sinus infections are more common. The cold, dry air of winter not only dry out your skin but your nasal passages as well. The dry air will irritate your sinuses and make your symptoms even worse. An excellent way to prevent your sinuses from drying out is to utilize a humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture back into the air. If you don’t have a humidifier, in a pinch, you can create a makeshift sauna by running your shower as hot as it can go and keeping the bathroom door closed. The warm wet air will promote drainage and create a moist environment for temporary relief.

You’re Not Staying Hydrated

Drinking more water with a sinus infection may sound counterintuitive, but it’s essential to stay hydrated while you have a sinus infection. Your body uses water to make mucus, so when you have a sinus infection, your body needs more liquids to stay hydrated. Keeping your body hydrated during a sinus infection also makes your mucus thinner, therefore easier to get rid of it so you can breathe a bit easier.

You’re Not Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep is one of the best things you can do for your body. It is especially important when you are suffering from a sinus infection or any other illness. Getting at least eight hours of sleep will help your body’s immune system fight against sinus infection. Furthermore, resting throughout the day and exerting as little energy as possible while you’re fighting a sinus infection is going to help your body recover even faster too.

You’re Irritating Your Sinuses

Dry air isn’t the only thing that can mess with your sinuses. Seasonal allergies, cologne, perfume, smoke, and other airborne particulates can mess with your sinuses, especially when suffering from a sinus infection. Unfortunately, other than staying in a hermetically sealed room, there’s not much you can do about some of these. If you wear any scent or are a smoker, stop immediately. You should see an improvement in your symptoms shortly after you stop using perfumes, and especially if you are a smoker. The toxins in smoke can inflame your sinuses and make your sinusitis much worse than it is.

Visit Your Local Sinusitis Experts

Staying away from these common mistakes we all make when suffering from sinusitis can help your symptoms improve, but the best way to help yourself overcome sinusitis is to contact your local ENT specialists in Allen Park and Southfield. Our ENT specialists are always here to help you get through your sinus infection no matter how severe. Call and schedule your appointment today!

How to treat nasal sinusitis in adults – treatment, symptoms, prevention

All articles

Sinusitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the sinuses (paranasal sinuses) that develops against a bacterial or viral infection. In complex therapy in the treatment of sinusitis in adults and children, it is recommended to use vasoconstrictors.

What causes sinusitis?

The paranasal sinuses communicate with the nasal cavity through special fistulas. When an infection enters the nasal cavity, inflammation occurs, the mucous membrane swells and inflammatory fluid accumulates inside the paranasal sinuses. When the edema is severe, the communication routes between the nasal cavity and the paranasal sinuses are blocked. Liquid begins to accumulate inside, which cannot be removed independently.

How can sinusitis occur?

Sinusitis in adults, as well as in children, can affect one or more sinuses. The disease can occur in acute or chronic form. The acute period of sinusitis lasts no more than three weeks, while the chronic process usually drags on for several months.

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

If nasal congestion does not resolve within 7 to 10 days, an incipient inflammation of the paranasal sinuses may be suspected. Typically, sinusitis is accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty in nasal breathing, weakening or complete loss of smell, prolonged runny nose with mucous or mucopurulent discharge. There is discomfort and soreness in the area of ​​the inflamed sinus, there is sensitivity, swelling or pain in a certain part of the face. The temperature rises to 38 degrees and above. At the same time, chronic sinusitis can occur against the background of normal or slightly elevated temperature. Symptoms can be frequent expectoration, copious sputum in the morning, dry throat, weakness, irritability, sleep disturbance, fatigue, loss of appetite, decreased concentration.

Symptoms are often aggravated by forward bending of the head (this phenomenon has been termed “lace-up syndrome”). If the symptoms listed above appear, you should not postpone a visit to the doctor, since it is much easier to cure sinusitis in an acute form than in a chronic one.

Rinomaris® is an innovative remedy for nasal congestion, which belongs to the so-called. “new generation” drugs for the common cold.
Learn more

How to treat sinusitis?

When symptoms of sinusitis are detected, treatment should be carried out in combination. The first priority in the treatment of sinusitis in adults and children is to reduce the swelling of the sinuses and cleanse them of the accumulated fluid.

Rinomaris

^® in the treatment of sinusitis

How to treat sinusitis and what can be used as a vasoconstrictor? A new generation drug has proven itself well – nasal spray Rinomaris ^® . It contains xylometazoline, which has a vasoconstrictive effect, and water from the Adriatic Sea. Under the influence of Rinomaris ^® eliminates swelling of the nasal mucosa, restores fistula patency and facilitates nasal breathing. The drug contributes to the thinning of mucus and its better removal from the nasal cavity. Mucus does not stagnate in the sinuses, and therefore there are no conditions for the reproduction of bacteria and the development of inflammatory complications.

Prevention of acute and chronic sinusitis

Obviously, preventing the development of the disease is much easier than treating chronic sinusitis. Therefore, in order to prevent sinusitis, experts recommend regularly washing the nasal passages with sea water. The microelements included in its composition thin the nasal mucus, moisturize and restore the mucous membrane, and also improve the function of the ciliated epithelium – the very tissue on which the cilia are located, which help to remove mucus, bacteria, viruses and allergens from the nasal cavity.

We use cookies to personalize and improve the user experience of our website.
By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies.
Familiarize yourself with the principles of their processing.

Accept

x

DOES MY NOSE HAVE SECRETS FROM ME…

Let’s see if you know your own nose well.
Find out interesting information about what serious work your nose does each
day, and tell your friends about it on social networks.

Start test

1

How many breaths per minute does an adult make on average?

12-14 breaths;

18–20 breaths;

50–58 breaths;

any number of breathing movements.

Correct
+5 points

Continue

False
0 points

Continue

Adult a person at rest performs an average of 14 respiratory movements per minute.

2

How many liters of air passes through the nose in a day?

5 liters;

10 liters;

1000 liters;

10,000 liters.

Correct
+5 points

Continue

False
0 points

Continue

About 10,000 liters of air pass through the nose every day.

3

Is there an oropharynx in the upper respiratory system?

not and never has been;

yes – along with the nasal cavity and nasopharynx;

present, but only in whales;

it happens, but its presence is a pathology.

Correct
+5 points

Continue

False
0 points

Continue

Upper respiratory system th tract consists of the nasal cavity, nasopharynx and oropharynx.

4

What do you know about the paranasal sinuses? The frontal sinus is located above the eyebrow, the maxillary sinus is between the cheek and the nose, and where is the ethmoid sinus?

between cheek and ear;

under the lower eyelids;

on the sides of the upper part of the nose;

humans don’t have it at all, only monkeys have it.

Correct
+5 points

Continue

False
0 points

Continue

the sinus is located on the sides in the region of the upper part of the nose.

5

What types of nasal mucosal cells are there?

goblet cells;

beaker cells;

glass cells;

cup cells.

Correct answer
+5 points

Continue

False
0 points

Continue

Mucosal th shell of the nose there are goblet cells.

6

At what temperature do the cilia of the epithelium, which are located on the nasal mucosa, stop functioning?

at +7–10 °С;

above +42°C;

below 0°C;

temperature does not affect cilia.

Correct
+5 points

Continue

False
0 points

Continue

Eyelash epithelial cells cease to function at a temperature of +7–10 °C.

7

A healthy person produces from 100 ml to 1-2 liters of nasal “mucus” per day. What is three-quarters of this amount spent on?

for the destruction of viruses and bacteria;

for washing the paranasal sinuses;

to maintain a constant temperature of the mucous membrane;

for humidification of inhaled air;

is excess liquid, we just blow it out.

Correct
+5 points

Continue

Incorrect
0 points

Continue

Three quarters and the nasal mucus produced per day is used to humidify the inhaled air.

8

One of the most common complications of the common cold in children is inflammation of the middle ear. Why?

in fact, young children and adults equally often have this complication;

in small children, the Eustachian tube, which connects the nasal cavity and the middle ear, is short and wide;

in young children, the external auditory meatus is closer to the eardrum;

in young children, the middle ear cavity with the auditory ossicles is underdeveloped.

Correct
+5 points

Continue

Incorrect
0 points

Continue

Less In some children, the Eustachian tube, which connects the nasal cavity and the middle ear, is short and wide. With a runny nose, microorganisms easily enter the ear cavity and cause inflammation.

9

What is the most common cause of inflammation of the nose and nasopharynx?

viruses;

bacteria and protozoa;

house dust mites;

Insects accidentally inhaled into the nose.

Correct
+5 points

Continue

False
0 points

Continue

Virus s is the most common cause of the development of inflammatory pathology of the nose and nasopharynx.

10

What most often leads to complications in the common cold?

increased formation and thickening of mucus in the nasal cavity;

frequent and excessive blowing of the nose;

contact with large amounts of dust in the living room;

self-treatment.

Correct
+5 points

Continue

False
0 points

Continue

Most common The second cause of complications in the common cold is the increased formation and thickening of mucus, as this creates favorable conditions for the reproduction of microbes, which increases the risk of inflammatory complications (sinusitis, otitis).

11

The combination of which solution with a vasoconstrictor is optimal for maintaining the physiological state of the mucosa during a runny nose?

regular saline solution;

natural seawater solutions;

dichlorobenzyl alcohol;

vegetable oil extract;

antiseptic solution (chamomile, sage, calendula).

Correct answer
+5 points

Continue

False
0 points

Continue

Sea water helps to normalize the ciliated epithelium and remove microorganisms and foreign particles from the nose, it also thins mucus and normalizes its production.

points

Your result

Unfortunately, you still know very little about how your
nose. Read useful information on the site. And don’t forget the main thing –
if a runny nose starts, you need to choose the right drug

You know a lot, but you still have a lot to learn about the physiology of the nose.
Dont be upset. The main thing, if a runny nose starts, is to start treatment on time.
and choose the right drug.

Are you really well prepared for the autumn cold season, because
you know almost everything about your nose. By understanding the physiology correctly, you can cure
runny nose for a couple of days.

SHARE

Repeat
test

Close

x
SHARE

We use cookies to personalize and improve the user experience of our website.
By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies.
Familiarize yourself with the principles of their processing.

Accept

Treatment and prevention of chronic sinusitis

Criteria for the effectiveness of the treatment of chronic sinusitis are:

• Sinus inflammation relief
• Nasal Improvement
• Reducing the number of flare-ups of sinusitis
• Elimination of the underlying cause of the disease

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

• Salt Nasal Spray . Which needs to be injected into the nose several times a day to flush the nasal passages.
• Nasal corticosteroids. These nasal sprays can prevent or eliminate inflammation.
• Oral or injectable corticosteroids. These drugs are designed to reduce inflammation caused by severe sinusitis, especially if you have nasal polyps. Examples of drugs are pridnisolone and methylprednisolone. With long-term use of oral corticosteroids, serious side effects can occur, so they are usually taken only to relieve the symptoms of severe asthma.
• Decongestants. These medicines are available without a prescription, including nasal drops and sprays. They can only be used for a few days, otherwise they can increase the swelling of the mucous membrane or lead to a condition known as the “addict’s nose”, when a larger dose is required to reduce nasal congestion.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers. For example, aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol and others) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin and others). Children should not be given aspirin.
• Antibiotics. Antibiotics are sometimes needed to treat chronic sinusitis caused by a bacterial infection. However, non-bacterial chronic sinusitis cannot be treated with antibiotics. To treat an exacerbation of chronic sinusitis caused by a bacterial infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics such as: amoxicillin (Amoxil, Trimox, etc. ), doxycycline (Dorix, Monodox, etc.), macrolides (Klacid, Sumamed, etc.) and the combination drug trimethoprim -sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra, etc.). If the nature of the infection is undetermined 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 prematurely, symptoms may return.
• Immunotherapy. If your sinusitis is accompanied by allergies, you can try allergen-specific immunotherapy, which will reduce your body’s response to allergens and help improve the condition.

Maxillary sinus puncture or treatment without puncture using YAMIK catheter. The principle of treatment with the YAMIK sinus catheter is to periodically create either negative or positive pressure in the nasal passage. The alternation of negative and positive pressure leads to pumping out and evacuation of purulent accumulations from the paranasal sinuses.

Surgical treatment

In cases where conservative treatment fails, endoscopic surgery is performed. For this procedure, the doctor uses an endoscope (a thin tube with a video camera and a light) to look at the nasal passages. Further, depending on the nature of the obstruction, the doctor can use various tools to remove tissues or eliminate polyps that block the discharge of contents from the paranasal sinuses.

When performing surgical treatment of the nasal cavity and sinuses, we adhere to the concept of Walter Messerklinger, which in recent years has grown into a whole surgical direction (Functional Endonasal Sinus Surgery, FESS). Functional endonasal (through the nostril) microsurgery is based on the principle of sparing surgical intervention in specific areas. With this approach, with a shaver (microrazor), only affected or abnormally located tissues are removed with the maximum preservation of the “healthy” mucous membrane.