Sinus infections can be very long-lasting, and even in cases where antibiotics are not effective, there is hope through prevention. Knowing how to prevent sinus infections can save you from having to use a antibiotic, or even take a preventative like a cold or flu medication.
This article will go over some ways to keep your sinuses healthy and prevent sinusitis.
Contents:
Symptoms of a sinus infection
While it may be tempting to treat a sinus infection with over-the-counter medications, you should be aware of your options. Many times, neither does much good.
Some medications can reduce the immune system’s response to bacteria, making it easier for it to grow. This is called side effects.
This may not be an option for some antibiotics, as some can have side effects related to heart and blood pressure issues.
Still, if you are unsure of your symptoms or whether you are suffering from a cold or cough, an ice bagged nasal wash is a great way to start treatment.
Causes of sinus infections
There are a few causes of sinus infections, and each causes a different type of infection. These include:
Prescription medications: Some prescription drugs may cause sinus problems. Examples include the antidepressant Wellbutrin and the blood thinner Coumadin, which is used for open wounds.
Some prescription drugs may cause sinus problems. Examples include the antidepressant Wellbutrin and the blood thinner Coumadin, which is used for open wounds. Over-the-counter decongestant medicines: Most people find these ineffective, but some people do use them as religious reasons. For example, someone could say that they put it on their forehead before prayer or worship services.
Most people find these ineffective, but some people do use them as religious reasons. For example, someone could say that they put it on their forehead before prayer or worship services. Allergy medicine: People with allergies often develop nasal allergies so quickly that it can start a recurring cycle. This happens because medication changes how someone feels in certain ways.
Long-term effects of sinus infections
While short-term effects can be painful, healing from a sinus infection is important. Healing can be difficult as the infection continues to run through the sinuses, causing more pain and inflammation.
Impaired immune system function can occur as soon as a week after the infection is over, or even longer than that. This includes your respiratory system, Including your lungs which can become severely dehydrated and imbalanced.
This includes your respiratory system, Including your lungs which can become severely dehydrated and imbalanced. This includes your stomach which may suffer from electrolyte imbalance which can cause nausea and digestive issues.
If you are having health issues due to this condition, you may need to contact a medical professional for help. You also may need medication but it is important to follow it properly to ensure health benefits.
What you can do for a sinus infection
If you have a sinus infection, there are some basic steps you can do to help it heal faster. These include drinking plenty of water, keeping your mouth hydrated, using antibacterial soap on your hands and feet, and pack a pain reliever or two.
Avoiding coffee and alcohol is also helpful.
Your pharmacist can help you find lots of cold and flu medications that are “generic” or “co-prescribed” which is what happens when your doctor shares the same medication.
See your doctor immediately if…
You notice any of the following signs or symptoms, they are very serious and may mean your sinus infection is becoming life-threatening:
Receding hairline at temples
Harder time breathing
Sneezing more frequently
Face or body redness or soreness
You have any one of these signs or symptoms after having a sinus infection for a short period of time: Improvement in one or more of these areas within a few days to weeks of your infection. This may be permanent if it is not treated.
Home remedies for sinus infection
While it’s tempting to turn to costly over-the-counter medications for help, you should be aware of the risks. Some medications can actually cause side effects or further problems.
Even if a medication does not seem to be working, you should still try it out due to the risk. If something does not go away, take steps towards getting a diagnosis and possible treatment.
A diagnosis can help guide your healthcare team in creating an appropriate treatment plan that is in your best interest. A healthcare team that knows what they do and what they don’t do can save you from having to search for answers and taking action.
This is where trying some common home remedies for sinus infection comes in. These tips may not work right away, but if you keep trying them, you can help improve your health and sleep quality.
Use the warm steam method
When treating a sinus infection, be sure to use the soothing steam method. This involves placing a heat-producing device such as a dry towel or wash cloth on your nose and mouth for at least ten minutes, followed by for as long as needed to clean the sinuses.
The steam also serves as an analgesic, or pain reliever. This allows you more time to heal your sinuses and treatment medication in your system before you start experiencing relief.
Once you begin experiencing relief from the steam, then you can reduce or remove the steam device! You should never put anything in your body that is going to cause pain, especially not medications.
Instead of taking a cold water bath or wetting your face with a cup of tea, use a heat-producing device that can produce warm water and air.
Take medicine prescribed by your doctor
There are two main types of sinus infections that you can take medicine for. The first is called antibiotic treatment. The second is non-medicinal treatment.
Antibiotic treatment refers to using a drug to kill an infection. While this may seem counterintuitive, when your body cannot heal itself properly, it makes sense to use a medication.
There are many ways to treat Sinus Infection 2: Dry Cycles and Wet Cycles, both of which contain antibiotic drops or tinctures. Both also include oxygenation devices such as a nasal mask or dry oxygen therapy.
The best time to take antibiotics is right after the sinuses are infected, which can be anytime including during sleep! It is recommended that you wake up and go into the bathroom and take your medicine before anything else so you are fully hydrated and healed.