How to Treat a Bad Sinus Infection

More than 35 million Americans suffer from sinus disease according to ent-consult.com. A sinus infection can often go undetected because many people write it off as a cold. If a sinus infection remains untreated for a long period of time it can worsen, causing severe pain, fever and congestion. A severe sinus infection can be treated but will most likely need prescription drugs to cure it.

Things You'll Need

• Prescription antibiotics
• Anti-inflammatory pain medication
• Expectorant
• Decongestant
• Peppermint oil
• Eucalyptus oil

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Instructions

Treat a Bad Sinus Infection

• 1

  Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and how long you have had them. Explain the pain, pressure and other signs of the sinus infection. Ask him for a prescription for antibiotics to cure the infection. Take the prescription exactly as is recommended. Do not stop taking antibiotics when the symptoms are reduced. Take the entire amount prescribed until it is completed.

• 2

  Use over-the-counter remedies to treat the congestion, pain and pressure associated with a bad sinus infection. Take a decongestant to reduce the swelling of the sinus cavity. Use an anti-inflammatory pain reliever such as ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation in the sinuses. Take an expectorant to help thin the mucus build-up and allow your body to expel it at a more efficient rate. All these medications may be used simultaneously, along with a prescription antibiotic.

• 3

  Make a warm, moist compress to use on your face. Run a washcloth under hot water for 30 seconds. Wring out most of the water. Place 3 drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil on the washcloth to help open the sinus cavity. Lie down on your back and place the hot washcloth over your nose and face. Repeat as often as needed.