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7 Ways To Treat Sinus Infections

There are small cavities in our skull called sinuses. Their job is to produce mucus, and these cavities are usually filled with air. An infection in the sinuses is called sinusitis. The tissue that is lining these cavities gets ingested, thus blocking the cavities.

A person suffering from sinusitis

Sinusitis is very common, and a lot of people experience it. Sinusitis is of two types:

  1. Acute Sinusitis: Lasts for a short time only, typically 4 weeks.
  2. Chronic Sinusitis: Lasts a long time, even years, and is sometimes difficult to treat.

 

There are a lot of remedies for relieving sinusitis symptoms, some of them are listed below.

Painkillers

Painkillers are effective in relieving symptoms of sinusitis, especially headaches. Painkillers are safe to take as an over-the-counter medicine but should not be taken for more than 10 days.

A person taking out pills in his hand

Antibiotics

If a doctor prescribes you antibiotics, this means that your sinus infection is caused by bacteria. Antibiotics are not effective on viruses, and can have side effects if taken for a viral infection. Never take an antibiotic without asking your doctor and always complete the full course your doctor has prescribed, even if the symptoms go away before it.

Steroids

Steroids can help reduce the swelling in your head and relieve pain but are only used for extreme cases where the pain starts to become unbearable. Never take a steroid without consulting a doctor

Decongestants

Decongestants often come in the form of nasal sprays and help reduce the mucus in the sinus. Decongestant sprays can be used as an over-the-counter solution but don’t use it for more than 3 days. If the symptoms don’t go away, consult your doctor.

Allergy Medication

Oftentimes, sinus infections are caused by other allergies that have been underlying or not treated adequately. Treating other allergies can help you get rid of your sinus infection automatically.

Breathe in Steam Vapor

Breathing in vapor steam from hot water can help decongest your sinuses and help you relax. It’s a home remedy that has no side effects, but there’s no guarantee of it working either.

Drink Fluids

Drinking a lot of fluids and staying hydrated will make your mucus thin, reducing the swelling a little. Avoid alcohol while you have sinusitis.

If you have sinusitis and are reluctant to go to the hospital, there’s no need to worry. TelMDCare offers an online doctor healthcare service with licensed doctors. We offer consultation for multiple health problems, including sinusitis. Contact us now or book an appointment.