Is there a treatment to prevent sinus infection?

Answer 1

I have chronic sinus disease as a result of Wegener's Granulomatosis. I have found a twice daily warm saline rinse cleanses my sinuses and inhibits the growth of infectious bacteria. I accomplish this with a 60 cc syringe and a cup of warm water and about a teaspoon of salt. The saline breaks up any crusting of mucus that can harbor bacteria and clears out congestion and lets air pass better.

Answer 2

Antibiotics - You may be prescribed antibiotics if it is determined that you have an acute, chronic, or reccurent sinus infection. The amount and duration will depend on your specific problem. Antibiotics are more commonly prescribed to take orally, but in some cases may be given as a nose spray.

Steroids - If it is noted that you have a signficant amount of nasal inflammation you may be prescribed an oral steriod (often in combination with an antibiotic) to help decrease the inflammation. Steriods do not cure sinus problems but will help bring them under control. They may be prescribed as pills or as a nasal spray.

Saline Irrigation Sprays - Using an over the counter mild saline spray or irrigation system regularly will cleanse and moisten the sinuses. This can cut down on infections.

Mucus Thinning Agent - Mucinex is our preferred mucous thinning agent. Mucinex acts by making mucus more watery so its easier to clear from your nose and sinuses. When using Mucinex it is very important to drink plenty of water.

Antihistamines - Sinus patients with Allergies may benefit from the use of antihistamines. They help reduce congestion, itching, sneezing, and the runny nose associated with allergies. They are available as either a prescription or over the counter and come in pill form or as a nasal spray.

Decongestants - Available as either a nasal spray or pill. We do not recommend nasal decongestant sprays as they are addicting and have a high potential for rebound congestion if used for more than 3 days. The only oral decongestant available is pseudoephedrine. It acts by reducing blood flow to the nose which shrinks the membranes in the nose. Pseudoephedrine is a stimulant and there are several drawbacks to its use such as it can raise blood pressure, make you jittery, anxious, and interefere with sleep.

Pain Relievers - Over the counter pain relievers such as Tylenol and Motrin are useful to help with headaches and facial pain associated with sinusitis.

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Answer 3

It depends on what bacteria are causing the infection. That's how the doctor decides what antibiotic to give you - not where the infection might be. Remember to take all of your antibiotics to kill every bit of infection instead of quitting part-way through and leaving some bacteria still alive in your body.

Answer 4

If it is truly a sinus infection is does require antibiotics as infections usually cannot clear up without them.

Answer 5

rarely, but sometimes yes they do like 1 out of 10 sinus infections do, but i wouldent bet on it if you have a sinus infection i would contact my doctor quickly. hope this helped ^_^

Answer 6

it is a cogestion in the nose and can be treated

Answer 7

As someone who suffers from sinus infections the best treatments is using decongestants and nasal sprays. You should also take any medications given to you by your doctor.