How to Cure a Sinus Infection
Millions of Americans suffer from sinus infections every year and billions of dollars are spent by sufferers looking for a cure. Sinus infections also account for more than 16 million doctor’s visits which adds up to countless hours away from family, friends, work, and school. If this sounds like you then there is good news. You don't have to suffer any longer; there are cures for sinusitis that are safe and affordable.
What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is the infection of the air-filled spaces around the nose and eyes known as the sinuses or sinus cavities. The sinus cavities play a key role in breathing, vocal tone, and maintaining air humidity. They help keep you healthy by producing mucus that filters the air in order to trap foreign bodies that it then drains out of the body.
When the lining of the sinuses encounters too much bacteria or certain types of molds or viruses they may become inflamed and swollen. This causes the mucus flow to become blocked and trapped. The trapped mucus can become infected and cause worsened symptoms. The infection will continue to grow until flow is restored. This infection is what is known as sinusitis.
Allergy sufferers may be more likely to get infections because their sinus cavities are blocked more often. The symptoms can also be mistaken for a bad cold or rhinitis (hay fever). Common symptoms include:
- Postnasal drip
- Abnormal nasal discharge that is yellow or green in color
- Congestion
- Facial pain
- Facial swelling
- Other symptoms like fatigue, bad breath, or fever
Each patient may suffer from different symptoms depending on their situation and other medical conditions. No matter the symptoms, sinusitis is a serious condition that can negatively impact your quality of life and overall health. Severe infections are possible, so it is important to see a qualified ENT like the ones at Gulf Coast Breathe Free when you start experiencing symptoms. The most common forms of treatments to consider are:
Home Remedies for Sinus Infections: How to Cure a Sinus Infection Naturally
If you only experience one or two mild sinus infections a year and want to avoid the side effects that come with medicine, a sinus infection home remedy may be right for you. Most, if not all, home remedies for sinus infections work by restoring the natural drainage of the sinus cavities. This allows for the body to start the healing process. Common home remedies include:
- Increasing Water Intake - Because the body is mostly water, it needs to be properly hydrated to work properly. So, staying hydrated can promote healing.
- Using Vapor or Mist - Several types of humidifiers provide enough mist or vapor to successfully break up small blockages. Take in the steam using deep breaths into the nose to promote natural drainage.
- Sinus Rinse or Neti Pot - These work with the idea that a purified saline solution can break up blockages in the nasal cavity, clean the sinus cavity, and restore drainage. They can provide relief, but it is important to follow the directions closely to avoid further infection or injury.
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Treating a Sinus Infection with Medication
Sinus infections can be treated quickly in certain situations and with specific medications that eliminate the infection and allow the body to heal. Medications include:
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are the first line of defense against one of the most common types of sinus infections, a bacterial sinus infection. Unfortunately, these are the only types of sinusitis that antibiotics can treat. Antibiotics will not have any effect on viral or fungal infections.
Frequently, the body can heal itself of a sinus infection but for infections lasting longer than a week, an antibiotic may be needed. Antibiotics can improve the body’s ability to fight off infection and can help you see significant reduction of symptoms within days.
Nasal Spray
The two major types of nasal sprays include:
- Nasal Decongestants - Nasal decongestants can provide quick relief by reducing the swelling in the nose to restore drainage. Long-term use of this type of spray should be avoided to prevent dependence.
- Nasal Corticosteroids - This type of nasal spray helps to reduce swelling and symptoms but unlike the nasal decongestants, you can use this one long-term.
Antihistamines & OTC Medication
Antihistamines and other OTC allergy medications can help prejudice allergic reactions that may make sinus infections worse. They may also give the body a better chance to heal the infection.
When considering OTC medications, it is important to take a look at the active ingredients and side effects. You should also consult your doctor to make sure that the OTC’s won’t react with any other medication you may be on.
Long-Term Treatment: Sinus Surgery
Sinus surgery may be recommended for people who suffer from several severe and long-lasting sinus infections every year. Sinus surgery can help fix defects in the nose or sinuses that may be causing problems. These defects include:
- Deviated septum
- Nasal polyps
- Closed passages
Surgeries are typically done in the hospital or surgery center under anesthesia. They involve the cutting and removal of bone and cartilage and usually have a long recovery time. The good news is that there is a better long-term solution for your sinusitis.
Balloon Sinuplasty: The Long-Term, Minimally Invasive Sinus Solution
Balloon sinuplasty is a modern long-term sinusitis treatment. It does not involve any cutting, stitches, or long recovery. During balloon sinuplasty a small balloon is inserted into your sinus cavity and inflated so that natural drainage can be restored. It is a successful long-term solution that is done right in the office here at Gulf Coast Breathe Free.
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Gulf Coast Breathe Free is the Place for Long-Term Sinus Relief
Every person’s sinus health is unique and our well-trained staff is capable of handling any issues that you may have. We can work with you to develop a long-term treatment plan for your sinus issues that will have you breathing free for years to come.