What can help a sinus infection? Discover the signs, symptoms and effective natural remedies for acute sinusitis. Get expert tips on diagnosis and treatment to find relief from sinus pain, congestion and other sinus infection symptoms.

Understanding Sinus Infections: Anatomy and Causes

The nose serves as the body’s primary defense against germs, filtering out dust, germs and other particles through the tiny hairs and mucus lining the nasal passages. These passages also warm and moisten the air we breathe, ensuring it reaches the lungs at the right temperature. However, during seasonal changes, the nasal passages can dry out, making them less effective at protecting against viruses that cause the common cold. When the virus moves to the sinuses, a sinus infection or acute sinusitis can develop.

Symptoms of Sinus Infections

The main symptoms of a sinus infection (also known as acute sinusitis) include:

• Nasal congestion
• Thick, discolored nasal secretions
• Pain in the teeth or along the side of the nose, which is often worse when bending forward

Initial Treatment Options for Sinus Infections

The initial treatment of uncomplicated acute sinusitis can be obtained without a prescription at most drug stores and supermarkets:

• Saline solution in a nasal spray or Neti pot to keep the nasal passages moist and clear out mucus
• Pain and fever reducers like Tylenol
• Antihistamines to control a runny nose, especially for those with allergies
• Decongestants, both oral and nasal, to help relieve clogged nasal passages
• Mucus thinners like guaifenesin

Antibiotics are generally not prescribed at this stage, as most sinus infections are caused by cold viruses, which do not respond to antibiotics.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Sinus Infections

If the symptoms linger for more than 10 days, it may be time to see a doctor. Signs that a sinus infection is worsening include:

• Swelling in the face
• Headache and pain around the nasal passages
• Low-grade fever
• Green or discolored mucus
• Worsening symptoms after initial improvement

At this point, a doctor may prescribe a topical corticosteroid nasal spray and antibiotic therapy.

Potential Complications of Sinus Infections

Complications from sinusitis are rare but can be serious. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:

• Fever greater than 102 degrees
• Difficulty with eyesight
• Swelling or redness around the eyes
• Severe pain or headache

If symptoms last longer than 12 weeks, it may be a sign of a more underlying condition, and a specialist should be consulted.

Natural Remedies for Sinus Infections

While over-the-counter medications can provide relief, some patients also turn to natural remedies to help manage sinus infection symptoms:

1. Saline nasal irrigation: Using a Neti pot or nasal spray to flush out mucus and keep the nasal passages moist
2. Ginger: Has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce sinus inflammation and pain
3. Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory effects
4. Bromelain: An enzyme found in pineapples that can help thin mucus and reduce swelling
5. Garlic: Has antimicrobial properties that may help fight viral and bacterial infections
6. Honey: Has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects
7. Eucalyptus oil: Can help open nasal passages and provide relief from congestion
8. Capsaicin: The compound that gives chili peppers their heat, which can help clear nasal passages
9. Probiotics: May help boost the immune system and prevent sinus infections
10. Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can thin mucus and promote drainage

Preventing Sinus Infections

To help prevent sinus infections, it’s important to keep the nasal passages moist and healthy. Some tips include:

• Regularly using a saline nasal spray or Neti pot
• Avoiding dry indoor air by using a humidifier
• Washing your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs
• Getting adequate sleep and managing stress, which can weaken the immune system
• Avoiding triggers like smoke, dust, and strong scents that can irritate the sinuses

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for sinus infections, you can take proactive steps to prevent and manage this common condition, allowing you to breathe easier and enjoy a healthier, happier life.

Sinus Infection Prevention and Treatment

During the time of year when the seasons are changing, many of us get a stuffy nose, a dry cough or worse – a sinus
infection. But I like to think that all the sneezing and wheezing make us appreciate an organ we tend to take for granted.

Let me start with a quick anatomy lesson. The nose serves as the body’s primary defense against germs. The tiny hairs
and overlying mucus that line the nasal passages filter out dust, germs and other particles that would otherwise irritate
the lungs and make us sick. The nasal passages also warm and moisten the air we breathe so that by the time it reaches
our lungs, the air is the right temperature.

During the winter, the outdoor air is dry and indoor air is even dryer. The nasal passages dry out and the nose doesn’t
do as good a job as it could at protecting itself from germs. Several viruses cause the common cold and with it a runny
nose, congestion and scratchy throat. When the virus moves to the sinuses, a sinus infection develops.

The symptoms of a sinus infection (also known as acute sinusitis) include:

• Nasal congestion
• Thick discolored secretions
• Pain in the teeth or along the side of the nose that is worse when bending forward

The initial treatment of uncomplicated acute sinusitis can be obtained without a prescription at most drug stores and supermarkets:

• Saline solution in a nasal spray helps keep the nasal passages moist and washes away the mucus build-up. Some drug stores
  sell Neti pots, with a saline solution. These devices provide a larger volume of saline solution than a spray to
  clear out nasal passages and keep them moist.
• Pain and fever reducers such as Tylenol®
• Antihistamines can help control a runny nose, especially in patients with allergies, but may cause side effects
  such as over-drying.
• Decongestants can help relieve clogged nasal passages. Decongestants taken orally can lead to such side effects
  as trouble urinating, jitters and sleeplessness. Nasal decongestant sprays may help open the clogged nose and adjacent
  tissues. The sprays also have fewer side effects than oral decongestants. I would avoid using the spray for more
  than 2 to 3 days to prevent rebound.
• Many of my patients ask me about vitamin C, Echinacea and other herbal remedies. I have not seen any evidence
  that persuades me that these remedies work at preventing colds or reducing symptoms. And I warn patients against
  zinc because there is the risk of a permanent loss of smell.
• Mucus thinners such as guaifenesin may help thin the secretions.
• Antibiotics are not usually prescribed at this point because most cases of sinusitis are caused by cold viruses, which
  don’t respond to antibiotics.

These remedies treat the symptoms, making patients more comfortable while their immune system fights off the virus that causes
the infection. But sometimes the symptoms linger for more than10 days. Patients feel swelling in their face, headache
and pain around their nasal passages. They may develop a low-grade fever or their mucus may change to green or they may
get worse after initial improvement. It’s time to see a doctor.

This is an appropriate time to consider adding a topical corticosteroid nasal spray and antibiotic therapy. Here’s
my dilemma over antibiotics. It turns out that fewer than 2 percent of sinusitis cases are caused by bacteria.

I don’t want my patients to develop a resistance to an antibiotic they may need some day for a serious infection. I
also want to avoid side effects such as diarrhea or a rash. And I don’t want to contribute to the growing public
health crisis over bacteria that have become resistant to antibiotics. But I want my patients to recover and prevent
any serious complications from sinusitis. So generally, I prescribe an antibiotic if a patient isn’t improving
as expected.

Complications from sinusitis are rare, but potentially serious. You should call your doctor immediately if you develop fever
greater than 102 degrees, difficulty with eyesight, swelling or redness around the eyes, severe pain or headache.

Cold and sinusitis symptoms may linger for several weeks, but when they last longer than 12 weeks there’s likely some
other cause. These patients need to see a specialist. There may be an obstruction in the nasal passages, an allergic
disorder or an inherited condition.

Patients with chronic conditions know how much a healthy nose means to a happy, healthy life.

So, take care of your nose. Wash your hands. Use a saline spray when needed. And remember this complex organ that allows
you to smell the ocean breeze also warms the air you breathe and protects you from infection.

Sinus Infection Signs & Symptoms + 10 Natural Remedies

Fact Checked

This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information.

With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.

This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies.

Our team includes licensed nutritionists and dietitians, certified health education specialists, as well as certified strength and conditioning specialists, personal trainers and corrective exercise specialists. Our team aims to be not only thorough with its research, but also objective and unbiased.

The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.

By Annie Price, CHHC

March 11, 2017

About 35 million Americans suffer from a sinus infection or sinusitis every year. (1) Sinusitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of the tissue lining the sinuses that leads to an infection. It can result in mucus build-up and pain. If you’ve ever experienced a sinus infection, then you know just how unpleasant it can be — much worse than a stuffy nose. While in most cases, a sinus infection will simply leave you running to find a decongestant, in the worst cases, it can lead to surgery to remove an abscess that has developed or the obstruction of the sinuses.

In the United States, sinusitis is the fifth most common medical diagnosis for which antibiotics are prescribed these days. The management of acute and chronic sinusitis is also costing this country over $11 billion every year. That doesn’t even include the economic impact of lost work time due to illness. (2)

While antibiotics for sinus infection are a very common conventional treatment, the majority of sinus infections are actually the result of colds or viruses. They will get better as your nasal congestion improves.

Thankfully, there are a lot of natural ways to treat a sinus infection, including the foods you eat (and don’t eat), saline nasal sprays, essential oils and supplements scientifically proven to be an effective sinus infection home remedy.

What is a Sinus Infection?

The sinuses, or sinus cavities, are hollow spaces that air flows through within the bones surrounding the nose. A sinus infection or sinusitis occurs when your nasal cavities become swollen and inflamed. Normally, your sinuses are filled with air. When sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, germs (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) can grow and cause an infection.

How long do sinus infections last? Well, that depends on what type of sinus infection you have. Acute sinusitis can last over two weeks even with appropriate treatment. If your sinus infection lasts longer than 10 to 14 days, then you’re more likely to have bacterial sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis lasts much longer — at least 12 weeks! Chronic sinusitis with polyps is an inflammation of the sinuses that lasts 12 weeks or longer and is associated with having nasal polyps. Other forms of chronic sinusitis are associated with allergies or a deviated septum and also last 12 weeks or longer.

Is a sinus infection contagious? The answer to that question: it depends on what caused it in the first place. If a virus causes your sinus infection, then you can spread that virus. This means that a person who catches your sickness (the virus) will then likely get a cold, which could turn into a sinus infection, but also could just stay a cold. In some instances, the flu also triggers a sinus infection. If you have a virus-based sinus infection, you actually could have been contagious days before you got the actual sinus infection. Bacteria also can cause a sinus infection. That means your infection cannot be spread to others. However, a bacterial sinus infection is typically more intense and lasts longer than a viral sinus infection. (4)

How can you tell what type of sinus infection you have? Your doctor won’t be able to tell you if your sinus infection is bacterial or viral based on symptoms or an exam alone. The best way to tell the root of a sinus infection is symptom duration. If it’s a viral sinus infection, it should start to improve after five to seven days. On the other hand, a bacterial infection often lasts seven to 10 days or even longer and the infection can get worse after seven days. (5)

Signs & Symptoms

Many sinus infection symptoms are common to both acute and chronic cases of sinusitis.

Common symptoms of a sinus infection include: (6,7)

• Thick, yellow, foul-smelling discharge from your nose
• Blockage in your nose
• Congestion
• Post-nasal drip
• Sinus pressure or pain around your face and eyes
• Headache (generally in the forehead area and often referred to as a “sinus headache”)
• A cold that doesn’t go away or gets even worse
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Fever
• Earaches

It’s important to note that these all symptoms that can occur with the common cold.  It’s when these symptoms continue for longer than 10 days, that you may have a sinus infection.  If you have two or more symptoms and/or you have thick, green, or yellow nasal discharge, then it may be acute sinusitis.

With chronic sinusitis, you continue to have these symptoms for 12 weeks or longer plus you may also experience the following: (8)

• A feeling of congestion or fullness in your face
• Pus in the nasal cavity
• Runny nose or discolored postnasal drainage
• Bad breath
• Tooth pain
• Feeling tired very often

Causes & Risk Factors

Any health situation that blocks off the vital drainage channels of your sinuses can cause a sinus infection including: (9, 10)

• Respiratory infections like the common cold
• Hay fever or exposure to allergens such as cigarette smoke, dry air and pollutants
• Obstructions in the nasal or sinus cavities including nasal polyps, deviated septum, or nasal bone spur
• Non-allergic rhinitis (allergy-like symptoms that don’t have a known cause)
• Changes in air pressure (for example, from swimming or climbing high altitudes)
• Infections resulting from dental problems
• Physical injury to the sinuses
• Bacteria, viruses, and fungi

The five most common bacteria that can cause sinus infections are: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pyogenes. (11)

Risk factors (some of which overlap with causes) for sinus infections include: (12)

• Having asthma
• Overuse of nasal decongestants
• Frequent swimming or diving
• Climbing or flying to high altitudes
• Nasal polyps (small growths/swellings in the nasal passage), nasal bone spurs, or other abnormalities such as a deviated septum or cleft palate
• Dental infection
• Exposure to air pollution and cigarette smoke
• Pregnancy
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Being in the hospital, especially if the reason you are in the hospital is related to a head injury or you needed a tube inserted into your nose (for example, a nasogastric tube from your nose to your stomach)

Conventional Treatment

For a sinus infection, many doctors will recommend antibiotics if your symptoms go on for more than 10 days or if the sinus infection is deemed to be bacterial. If your sinus infection has a viral origin then you absolutely do not require antibiotic treatment. Amoxicillin (Amoxil) is commonly prescribed for an uncomplicated acute sinus infection. Many doctors will also use amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) as their drug of choice for treatment of a suspected bacterial sinus infection because it is said typically to be effective against most of the species and strains of bacteria that cause bacterial sinus infections. (13)

Many doctors will also recommend nasal corticosteroids, decongestants, pain medications, fever reducers, antihistamines, mucolytics and other drugs. It’s important to read the side effects of any and all recommend drugs. It’s also crucial to know that many doctors continue to prescribe antibiotics for viral sinus infections and this is only furthering the problem of antibiotic resistance.

1. Top Foods & Beverages for Sinus Infections

1. Water — Adequate hydration is the key to flushing out the virus from your system. Try to drink at least 8 ounces every 2 hours.
2. Chicken broth with vegetables —This traditional remedy of bone broth helps soothe the nasal cavities and respiratory system, along with providing important minerals.
3. Horseradish — Anyone who has accidentally eaten too much horseradish has experienced its potent ability to clear nasal passages.  Mix some horseradish with lemon to make it even more potent.
4. Ginger — Make a ginger tea and add raw honey to aid in recovery.
5. Garlic and onions — Both of these vegetables help boost immune function.
6. Vitamin C rich foods — Consuming foods high in vitamin C can boost the immune system and speed recovery from sinusitis.

2. Foods & Beverages to Avoid

1. Sugar — Decreases white blood cells that help fight off infection.
2. Fruit juices — Although orange juice contains some vitamin C, it is not as high in vitamin C as whole fruits or vegetables. If you want to drink juice, dilute it.
3. Dairy products — Milk and other dairy products are mucus producing so it is best to avoid them.
4. Refined flour and grains — All refined grains can cause more mucus production.
5. Salt — Without adequate water intake, salt can be dehydrating and slow healing of the inflammation of the sinuses.

3. Oil of Oregano 

Oregano oil contains two powerful compounds of carvacrol and thymol that have powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. I recommend 500 milligrams of oregano oil four times per day. For sinus infections, you can also add few drops of oregano oil to a large bowl of recently boiled water. Being careful not to burn yourself, cover your head with a towel creating a tent to keep the steam in, close your eyes and put your face over the pot (a safe distance from the hot water) and inhale the fragrant steam for a few minutes. This will help to clear the nasal passages and can be repeated several times a day. (14)

4. Grapefruit seed extract

Grapefruit seed extract has potent antiviral properties. This is why it is included in many nasal and throat sprays.  The main biological compounds in a grapefruit seed that are believed to be responsible for its ability to destroy infectious invaders are the polyphenols known as limonoids and naringenin. (15) I recommend using a grapefruit seed extract nasal spray four times per day.

5. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential to proper function of the immune system, which is the system that protects your body from getting infections and also helps your body to fight infections once it has one. As an antioxidant, vitamin C also helps guard our cells from free radical damage.  Free radicals are found in things that can commonly contribute to the development of sinus infections like air pollution and cigarette smoke. (16) I recommend 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C three times per day.

6. Garlic

Garlic is one of nature’s best antibiotics. Since colds often lead to a sinus infection, garlic is an awesome way not only to naturally treat a sinus infection, but to prevent it in the first place.  In one study, people took either garlic supplements or a placebo for 12 weeks during cold season (between November and February). The garlic takers were less likely to get a cold, and if they did get a cold, they recovered faster than the placebo group. Those who didn’t take garlic (placebo group) had a much greater likelihood of contracting more than one cold over the 12-week treatment period. The study attributes garlic’s ability to prevent the common cold virus to its star biologically active component component, allicin. (17)

For general health promotion for adults, the World Health Organization recommends a daily dose of two to five grams (about one clove) of fresh garlic, 0.4 to 1.2 grams of dried garlic powder, two to five milligrams of garlic oil, 300 to 1,000 milligrams of garlic extract, or other formulations that are equal to two to five milligrams of allicin. (18)

7.  Echinacea 

Echinacea is an herb that can help your body fight off viruses and bacteria. Professional herbalists will often recommend this herb for natural treatment of sinus infections.  Scientific studies have shown that echinacea contains active substances that are antiviral and boost the immune system while also reduce pain and inflammation, which is a perfect combination of effects or a sinus infection. (19) It is best to take an echinacea supplement at the first sign of illness. I recommend 1,000 milligrams two to three times per day.

8. Neti Pot

Using a neti pot with a saline solution can also greatly improve sinus issues and clear the nasal passage ways. This process is called “nasal irrigation.” Research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has even shown that neti pot usage can eliminate some symptoms of chronic sinusitis and maintain positive outcomes over a six month time span. According to Dr. Paul Little, lead author and a professor of medicine at the University of Southampton, “In addition to improving sinus symptoms, headaches were reduced, there was less use of over-the-counter remedies, and people also said they were less likely to contact the doctor again for a future attack of sinusitis.” (20)

9. Add Moisture 

Whether it’s a humidifier, saline nasal spray, or sitting in a steam-filled bathroom, adding more moisture to the air and your nasal passages can really help to reduce congestion. (21) I highly recommend sleeping with a humidifier while you have a sinus infection. You can also purchase a natural saline nasal spray that you can use several times a day (following package instructions). Steam inhalation is especially good at reducing sinus headaches.

10. Essential Oils 

To naturally clear the sinuses, using eucalyptus oil and peppermint oil can be highly effective. These essential oils can naturally open up the sinuses, clear mucus and eliminate infections. Rub one drop of each on the roof of the mouth (only do this with food grade essential oils). Then drink water. Another great idea is to diffuse essential oils into the air so you can breathe them in. My homemade vapor rub recipe can also be helpful for sinus infections. 

Precautions

If your sinus infection symptoms get worse or you do not see improvement after 10 to 14 days, then you should see your doctor. An unimproved sinus infection can lead to other conditions such as bronchitis or complications and the need for surgery.

When first experiencing allergy-like symptoms, you may also want to consult an allergist because an allergist may be able to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms.

Always check with your doctor before taking any natural supplements if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have any ongoing medical concerns, or are currently taking other medications.

Final Thoughts

Unfortunately, sinus infections are pretty common these days. As is unnecessary treatment with antibiotics. Remember that antibiotics are absolutely unnecessary when it comes to treating viral sinus infections (and most are caused by a virus). Taking antibiotics can do much more harm than good to your body, especially if you take them when they are truly not needed.

Most sinus infections respond well to natural sinusitis treatment. There are so many natural options to choose from that are not just effective, but are also affordable and easy to do in the comfort of your home.

Read Next: 13 Natural Sore Throat Remedies for Fast Relief

symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Contents

• 1 How to get rid of sinusitis: effective treatment at home
  • 1.1 What is sinusitis and what are the types
  • 1.2 What symptoms of sinusitis can occur
  • 1.3 Diagnosis of sinusitis
  • 1.4 What are the main treatments for sinusitis
  • 1.5 Treatment of sinusitis without antibiotics
  • 1. 6 Treatment of sinusitis: use of antibiotics
    • 1.6.1 Symptoms of sinusitis and recommendations for treatment
    • 1.6.2 Which antibiotics are used to treat sinusitis
  • 1.7 Symptomatic treatment of sinusitis: drugs
  • 1.8 Consequences of improper treatment of sinusitis
  • 1.9 Can sinusitis be cured without surgery
  • 1.10 Surgical treatment of sinusitis
    • 1.10.1 Effective ways to fight the disease
  • 1.11 Prevention of sinusitis: how to protect yourself from the annoying disease
    • 1.11.1 Proper breathing
    • 1.11.2 Seeing a doctor at the first sign
    • 1.11.3 Maintaining hygiene
    • 1.11.4 Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
    • 1.11.5 Seeing a dentist

  9000 5 1.12 Related videos:

  • 1.13 Q&A :
    • • 1.13.0.1 What are the symptoms of sinusitis?
      • 1.13.0.2 Why is sinusitis dangerous?
      • 1.13.0.3 How can I tell if I have sinusitis?
      • 1. 13.0.4 How is sinusitis treated?
      • 1.13.0.5 What folk remedies help with sinusitis?
      • 1.13.0.6 How to prevent sinusitis?

Learn about sinusitis treatments, symptoms, and causes. Effective folk recipes and drugs to combat sinusitis without consequences.

Sinusitis is a disease in which inflammation covers the mucous membranes of the sinuses of the nose. This leads to swelling of the tissues and disruption of the drainage of the air sinuses, which causes pain in the nose and head.

Depending on the nature of the course of the disease, several of its forms are distinguished: acute, subacute and chronic. Symptoms of sinusitis depend on the severity and form of the disease. The main symptoms are soreness in the nose, swelling of the mucous membrane, runny nose and headache. In some cases, conjunctivitis, ataxia, stretched neck muscles, and other unusual symptoms occur.

For the diagnosis of sinusitis, it is necessary to consult an ENT doctor. The doctor will conduct an examination of the nasal cavity and, based on its results, will give recommendations for continuing treatment. Treatment of sinusitis depends on the form and severity of the disease. For the treatment of acute forms of the disease, antibiotic therapy, physiotherapy, antihistamines and mucolytic drugs may be required. Chronic sinusitis is treated with complex therapy aimed at restoring the drainage of the air sinuses.

What is sinusitis and what types are there

Sinusitis is an inflammatory disease that manifests itself when the sinuses located in the nose are affected. These cavities are connected to the nasal cavity and perform the function of humidifying and purifying the inhaled air. Sinusitis is one of the most common diseases among the population. Depending on the duration of the course and the type of pathogen, several of its varieties are distinguished.

• Acute sinusitis – a disease that manifests severe pain in the eyes, nose and forehead, the presence of a runny nose and high fever;
• Chronic sinusitis is a disease that manifests itself in the form of constant malaise, the presence of a runny nose, nasal congestion, deterioration of the sense of smell;
• Sinusitis is a common form of sinusitis, which is manifested by a purulent inflammatory reaction in the region of the lower maxillary fossa;
• Etmoiditis is a type of sinusitis, which is characterized by an inflammatory reaction located in the cells of the ethmoid bone, and is manifested by impaired sense of smell, pain in the eyes, nose and head;
• Sphenoiditis is one of the rarest types of sinusitis, located in the tissue of the sphenoid bone, which manifests itself as aseptic inflammation in the occiput.

It is important to know that as soon as the first signs of sinusitis appear, you should consult a doctor. In the treatment of sinusitis, depending on its type and degree of development, complex therapy is used, as well as antibacterial drugs and local remedies.

What are the symptoms of sinusitis

Sinusitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the mucous membrane covering the nasal cavity. This process can lead to several unpleasant symptoms, including:

1. Soreness in the face and head. Most often, this soreness occurs in the forehead, nose and cheeks.
2. Nasal congestion and abundant nasal congestion. Breathing difficulties may occur even in patients who do not suffer from chronic respiratory disease.
3. Increased body temperature. Patients with sinusitis may experience weakness and fever up to 38-39 degrees.
4. Headache. Exacerbation of the disease can lead to acute, intense pain in the forehead or in the temporal region of the head.

Symptoms may vary depending on the type of sinusitis. If you notice such symptoms in yourself, be sure to consult a doctor and take tests to clarify the diagnosis and start timely treatment.

Diagnosis of sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses that causes pain, runny nose, headache and other symptoms. Diagnosis of sinusitis consists of several stages, which include:

• Medical examination: the doctor conducts a general examination of the patient to determine the presence of observable symptoms and identify possible causes of the disease.
• Physical examination: The doctor examines the patient’s nose, throat, and ears to rule out other causes of symptoms, such as allergies or a cold.
• X-ray and/or CT scan: this allows the doctor to see the extent of sinusitis in the nose and determine the possible cause of the disease.
• Microbial culture: The doctor may take a sample of nasal mucus to determine which strain of bacteria is causing the disease.

Diagnosis of sinusitis is an important step in the treatment of this disease. Based on the results of the diagnosis, the doctor can determine the correct treatment to help the patient cope with the symptoms and return to a healthy lifestyle.

What are the main treatments for sinusitis

Treatment for sinusitis depends on the cause and severity of the condition. One of the methods is the use of drugs. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the bacterial infection. Anti-inflammatory and pain medications may also be prescribed to reduce the symptoms of sinusitis.

If conservative treatment fails, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgery can help remove polyps, collapsed sinus walls, or underlying infections. One of the methods of surgical treatment is endoscopic surgery, which allows minimizing injuries to surrounding tissues and speeding up the recovery process.

Do not forget that sinusitis is a serious disease that can lead to complications and even to a chronic form. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor at the first signs of the disease and undergo a full treatment.

Treatment of sinusitis without antibiotics

In the early stages of sinusitis, when symptoms are mild, treatment without antibiotics may be effective.

First of all, it is necessary to provide additional air humidification in order to reduce the toxic effect of dry air on the mucous membrane. It is also useful to use special products for the care of the nasal passages, which moisturize and cleanse the mucous membrane.

Physiotherapy methods such as applications, heating pads, compresses, inhalations using aromatic oils are of great importance. They help to improve the outflow of mucus and make it easier to fight infection.

In addition, you should pay attention to the diet. It is necessary to increase the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C. This will help strengthen the immune system and cope with viruses and bacteria.

It is important to understand that treatment without antibiotics may take longer than with antibiotics. Therefore, if the symptoms worsen and the disease begins to take an acute course, you should consult a doctor and take a course of antibiotics.

Treatment of sinusitis: use of antibiotics

Symptoms of sinusitis and recommendations for treatment

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa and surrounding sinuses. Symptoms of sinusitis can include a runny nose, stuffy nose, pain in the forehead and head, impaired sense of smell, bad breath, and others.
If sinusitis is suspected, it is important to consult a doctor and undergo the necessary tests. In some cases, the doctor may recommend the use of antibiotics.

Which antibiotics are used to treat sinusitis

Antibiotic treatment of sinusitis can be effective, especially when it is caused by a bacterial infection. Your doctor may prescribe the following antibiotics:

• Amoxicillin is a drug commonly used to treat bacterial infections. May be used in combination with clavulanic acid to increase effectiveness.
• Azithromycin is an antibiotic used to treat respiratory tract infections. Well tolerated and highly effective.
• Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat a variety of infections, including sinusitis. May cause unwanted effects such as nausea and diarrhea.

It is important to remember that the use of antibiotics can have side effects and should only be done when prescribed by a doctor. It is also not recommended to self-medicate and stop taking antibiotics before the end of the course.

Symptomatic treatment of sinusitis: preparations

Sinusitis is a disease that is very often accompanied by unpleasant symptoms. In this case, in addition to residual therapy, it is important to alleviate the patient’s condition. For this, symptomatic agents are used.

One of the drugs that are often used in the symptomatic treatment of sinusitis are mucolytics . They make the mucus accumulated in the sinuses more liquid and promote its outflow, improving breathing.

To relieve swelling and reduce inflammation in the nose, vasoconstrictor drops , which can quickly increase the effectiveness of treatment.

antihistamines may be used to relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion and sneezing. They block the action of histamine, a substance that causes allergic reactions.

Anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce pain and reduce inflammation, which helps improve the patient’s quality of life.

One of the simple measures that can help with the symptomatic treatment of sinusitis is to wash the nose with saline solutions. This can help soften dry nasal mucous membranes and improve mucus flow.

As a rule, the doctor prescribes a certain set of drugs depending on the patient’s symptoms, long-term use of them can cause side effects.

Consequences of improperly treated sinusitis

Improperly treated sinusitis can lead to serious consequences that can be dangerous to a person’s health.

• Chronic sinusitis is one of the most unpleasant consequences. If the disease was not healed in time or the treatment was insufficient, it can turn into a chronic form. In this case, sinusitis becomes a permanent phenomenon and requires more intensive and long-term treatment.
• Complications of sinusitis – can lead to lung disease and other serious illnesses. If the disease was not treated on time, then it can lead to complications such as meningitis, sepsis, brain abscess and others.
• Long-term infection – Improperly treated sinusitis can lead to a long-term infection that can be quite dangerous and serious.

In light of this, seek medical attention at the first sign of sinusitis and do not self-medicate.

Is it possible to cure sinusitis without surgery

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses that can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, fever, and others. However, not all cases require surgery to treat it.

If symptoms of sinusitis persist after several weeks of treatment, further specialist advice and surgery may be required. However, most cases of sinusitis are successfully treated without the need for surgery.

Please note: you should never prescribe treatment yourself, it is better to consult a doctor who will select the most appropriate treatment regimen, taking into account the characteristics of your body and the degree of the disease.

Surgical treatment of sinusitis

Effective methods for combating the disease

Conservative treatment of sinusitis may not give the desired results, therefore, methods of surgical treatment of the disease are often recommended to patients.

One of the methods is puncture. Its essence lies in the puncture of the wall of the large popliteal sinus, which allows you to remove the accumulated festering mass. This method is one of the fastest and most effective for alleviating the patient’s condition.

Another surgical treatment for sinusitis is endoscopic surgery. This type of treatment allows you to make a minimal puncture at the border of the jaw cave, through which an endoscope is inserted, after which the inflamed areas are removed using special tools.

If sinusitis surgery fails, a follow-up course of antibiotic and hormone injections may be prescribed to reduce the risk of recurrence of the disease and return to a normal lifestyle more quickly.

Prevention of sinusitis: how to protect yourself from an annoying disease

Proper breathing

One of the causes of sinusitis is a violation of the process of breathing through the nose. In order to avoid this problem, you need to learn how to breathe correctly. Do not breathe through your mouth, look like a blocky nose during physical exertion and moisturize the nasal mucosa with special tools, tablets or just plain water.

Seek medical attention at the first sign of symptoms

If you experience symptoms such as headache, runny nose, difficulty breathing, do not ignore them and seek medical attention. Treating sinusitis early can help prevent it from becoming chronic.

Maintaining hygiene

To avoid contracting sinusitis, it is necessary to maintain hygiene: wash your hands often, do not touch your face with dirty hands, do not communicate with sick people at a distance of less than one meter. Also, get your flu shot every fall to boost your immunity.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent many diseases, including sinusitis. Giving up bad habits (smoking, alcohol) and proper nutrition, rich in vitamins and minerals, will help improve your health and protect against sinusitis.

Dental check-up

Some cases of sinusitis are caused by dental problems such as caries or infection. Regular check-ups at the dentist will help to avoid these problems and prevent the development of the disease.

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Q&A:

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

Among the main symptoms of sinusitis are nasal congestion, runny nose, purulent mucous discharge, headache in the forehead, cheeks and brow ridges, fever, weakness and fatigue.

Why is sinusitis dangerous?

Late treatment of sinusitis can lead to vision problems, chronic sinusitis, acute purulent infection of the soft tissues of the face, meningitis and a number of other complications.

How can I tell if I have sinusitis?

Diagnosis of sinusitis requires x-rays of the nose, computed tomography and a series of laboratory tests. For an accurate diagnosis, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist.

How is sinusitis treated?

Treatment for sinusitis may include antibiotics, vasoconstrictor drops and sprays, therapeutic massage, and physical therapy. For chronic or severe sinusitis, surgery may be required.

What folk remedies help with sinusitis?

Folk remedies such as common jasmine, carrot mixture, licorice infusion, blackcurrant broth, etc. can be used as an adjunct to the main treatment. However, before using it is necessary to consult a doctor to ensure their effectiveness and the absence of side effects.

How to prevent sinusitis?

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent sinusitis, including washing your hands regularly, using head protection during the cold season, avoiding exposure to cold, keeping your room well ventilated, and so on. To strengthen the immune system, it is also recommended to consume more vitamins and minerals, participate in physical exercises and eat right.

Do’s and don’ts for sinusitis

Do’s and don’ts for sinusitis

What is important to know when treating sinusitis.

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses. This disease is one of the most common complications of rhinitis and has similar symptoms: nasal discharge, shortness of breath, swelling of the mucous membranes and fever associated with the presence of an inflammatory process. It is important to remember that, despite the similarity of symptoms, sinusitis is a more serious and dangerous disease, and self-medication is strongly discouraged. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis and prescribe therapy. And in this article we will talk about the main “yes” and “no” in the process of treating sinusitis.

What to do

The main goals of sinusitis treatment are to clear the nasal passages and sinuses from accumulated mucus and/or purulent contents, as well as to reduce inflammation and normalize the general condition of the patient. To achieve the desired result, the doctor may prescribe:

• vasoconstrictors – to reduce swelling, facilitate nasal breathing;
• antiseptic preparations – necessary to eliminate inflammation;
• antibiotics or antivirals – prescribed taking into account the infectious agent;
• antihistamines – to relieve swelling of the mucous membranes of the nose.
• recommended the appointment of topical glucocorticosteroid therapy for patients with OS older than 12 years
• recommended the appointment of mucoactive therapy for patients with OS in order to normalize the work of the mucociliary epithelium, liquefy and facilitate the evacuation of pathological discharge

In order to cleanse the sinuses of mucus and pus, washing of the nasal passages and sinuses is prescribed. It can be carried out both at home, using special saline solutions, and in a medical institution.

What actions are strictly prohibited

As we have already said, the main “no” is attempts to treat sinusitis on your own. It is also categorically not recommended to adjust the dose of drugs prescribed by a doctor without prior agreement with him. It is unacceptable to use folk remedies if they are not approved by a specialist (it is especially dangerous to instill onion or garlic juice into the nose – this will cause a mucosal burn). All these actions, most likely, not only will not help cure sinusitis, but can significantly worsen the condition and lead to irreversible consequences. With sinusitis, thermal exposure is prohibited: with a pathology caused by a bacterial pathogen, this will accelerate the spread of infection and lead to an increase in the inflammatory process. Also, sports and any other physical activity are not recommended, with the exception of special breathing exercises that a doctor may recommend.