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Treament for a Sinus Infection

Sinus passages are hollow cavities located within the bones of the nose and face. If you get a sinus infection, these spaces fill with mucus, causing inflammation and swelling. You might sometimes get a sinus infection after you have a cold, but some people may suffer from sinus infections because of a deviated septum, an abnormality in the nasal cavity. Sinus infection symptoms include nasal congestion, cough, headaches, fever and sinus drainage.

  1. Treatments for Sinus Infections

    • Visiting the doctor can determine whether or not you are suffering from a sinus infection. First, he or she will review your medical history and then conduct a physical examination. During the examination, the doctor will usually look inside your nose, throat, and ears. He or she may gently tap your forehead or cheeks and ask you if they feel tender. If you suffer from recurring sinus infections, the doctor may even order an X-ray or CT (computed tomography) scan of your sinuses.

      Once the doctor determines you have a sinus infection, he or she will prescribe medication. If your sinus infection is caused by bacteria, the doctor will prescribe an antibiotic to kill the infection in your sinuses. On the other hand, if the infection is caused by a virus, an antibiotic is ineffective. Your doctor may choose to prescribe a decongestant to help eliminate nasal congestion as well. These decongestants can be prescribed as nasal sprays or oral medication. If you suffer from acute or chronic nasal infections, the doctor may prescribe a steroidal nasal spray that helps to decrease symptoms of the infection.

    Home Remedies for Sinus Infections

    • In addition to prescription medications, there are several methods you can use to treat a sinus infection at home. For example, inhaling steam helps to clear blocked nasal passages. This can be done by taking a hot shower or breathing in steam from a bowl of hot water. Another way to clear nasal passages is to flush your nasal passages with a warm mixture of salt water. Commonly referred to as saline irrigation, this technique is used by some who seek relief from sinus congestion. First, take a cup of warm water and mix it with a teaspoon of non-iodized salt. Next, go to the sink and lean your face over it, one nostril pointing downward. Finally, pour water from the cup into the nostril facing the ceiling. The warm solution passes through one nostril and flows into the next. The solution trickles down the drain, removing sinus congestion with it.

    Surgery Treatments

    • If you are someone who suffers from frequent debilitating bouts of sinus infections, you may be a candidate for surgery. During this procedure, the surgeon may correct a deviated septum or remove nasal polyps and other obstructions that may be causing your chronic sinus infections. The surgery is designed to open the nasal passageways, allowing sinuses to drain efficiently.

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