When To See A Doctor For Sinus Pain
If your sinus symptoms are not getting better with at-home treatments, and if your sinus symptoms last longer than seven to 10 days, you should see a doctor for treatment. Allina Health has many convenient care options for care, from online visits to walk-in care, to help you get better fast.
If you have frequent or reoccurring sinus infections, you may want to see an ear, nose and throat for your treatment options.
How You Can Treat Sinusitis Yourself
You can often treat mild sinusitis without seeing a GP by:
- getting plenty of rest
- taking painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
- avoiding allergic triggers and not smoking
- cleaning your nose with a salt water solution to ease congestion
You do not need to use all of the solution, but make a fresh solution each time you clean your nose.
How To Heal A Sinus Infection In 2 Days
2020/03/19
I never understood the fuss about sinus infections until Ive experienced it first hand.
Its horrible.
The second round of antibiotics and no relief in sight.
Its not you, its me, I said to my antibiotics and decided to try home remedies for sinus infections, still shocked that I agreed to take antibiotics in the first place. I must have been truly desperate.
Two Days later my sinuses were clear.
No sinus pressure, no sinus headaches, and no congestion. I was thrilled.
In this post, I will share my personal 2-day-sinus-infection protocol with you, along with many more effective home remedies and practical information about causes, cures, and prevention of sinus infections.
Ready? Lets start.
Don’t Miss: Medication To Take For Sinus Infection
How Do You Treat Chronic Sinusitis
Whether it is seasonal allergies that return every year like clockwork, or naturally small nasal passages that do not drain readily, some people find that chronic sinusitis is a part of life. In these cases, proactive treatment with decongestants and antihistamines can help to stave off the sinus congestion that can give rise to an infection.
Changes to your home environment such as eliminating dust and mold where possible and using a humidifier can all help provide relief as well. Many people who have recurring or chronic sinusitis also make use of steam therapy or neti pots to keep their sinus passages hydrated when symptoms begin. In extreme cases, having a doctor who knows your symptoms and knows when to give prescription medications may be necessary.
Natural Home Remedies For Sinus Headaches Work
These natural sinusitis home remedies are a safe and effective solution to avoid the side effects that come with using medication. However, they don’t treat the underlying causes of sinus infections, so if you’re suffering from frequent or recurring sinusitis you should see a medical professional.
Often, home remedies for sinus infections are not enough for chronic sinus sufferers. At Gulf Coast Breathe Free we offer a solution to your frequent sinus infections without the use of medication called Balloon Sinuplasty. Balloon sinuplasty is a safe, minimally invasive, in-office procedure that can give you long lasting relief. It is a small balloon that is entered into the sinus cavities and inflated to promote long term natural nasal drainage.
If these home remedies for sinus infections havenât been enough then schedule an appointment today to get long lasting relief from your chronic sinus issues.
Recommended Reading: Best Medicine For Sinus Congestion And Sneezing
Over The Counter Medications
For help alleviating sinus pressure and pain, try ibuprofen and a decongestant. Some medications include a combination of pain reliever and decongestant.
Mild antihistamines like Claritin and Allegra are helpful in moderation. Strong antihistamines like Benadryl are often way too drying. Be careful not to take antihistamines too often.
Even though you want your nose to stop running, too many antihistamines can make it more likely that youll get sinus infections in the future.
Drugs like Mucinex and Flonase can also be helpful in thinning the mucus in your nose and sinuses.
If you use Afrin, make sure you stop after three days. Though it can seem like a miracle drug, using it more than three days in a row can lead to something called rebound congestion. In other words, when you stop using the Afrin after continuous use, your nose becomes more congested than it was in the first place!
When To See A Vet For Your Dogs Sinus Infection
If your dogs symptoms have lasted more than 48 hours, its time to bring them to the vet for diagnosis. To discover the cause of your dogs sinus infection, your veterinarian may take X-rays, perform an endoscopy, take a nasal biopsy or culture, or run blood work.
Depending on the cause, your vet may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal therapy, perform surgery, or administer radiation therapy. Some dogs may have chronic sinus infections, which require ongoing treatment to manage signs that occasionally pop up.
You May Like: Sinus Headache How To Get Rid Of
Natural Dog Company Snout Soother
Flush your dogs sinuses A saline flush when performed correctly and under your veterinarians instruction can help break up and flush out mucus, allowing your dog to breathe easier.
Increase air moisture and humidity Run a humidifier or place a vaporizer in the area your dog spends most of their time. You can also bring your dog into the bathroom when you take a hot shower.
Keep your dogs nose clean Gently wipe your dogs nose with a warm, damp washcloth to remove discharge and ensure they can breathe clearly.
Remove mucus from inside your dogs nose Use a nasal aspirator or bulb syringe to gently suck out excess mucus from your dogs nose.
Encourage your dog to eat and drink Offer canned food with a strong odor to tempt your pooch into eating, and consider adding a water fountain for a fresh water supply.
Give your dog an antihistamine Antihistamines, like Benadryl and Zyrtec, can help alleviate your dogs runny nose. Plain diphenhydramine without nasal decongestants can be used, at a dose of 1 mg per pound, with no more than 75 mg total. For a Zyrtec dose, consult our comprehensive guide.
Always consult your vet before administering over-the-counter medications to your dog.
What Causes A Sinus Infection
A sinus infection is frequently caused by a virus and often lasts long after the other upset respiratory symptoms are gone. Besides, it is quite rare that fungus or bacteria may also start a sinus infection. There are some other causes leading to this annoying kind of medical condition such as allergies, nasal polyps, a tooth infection and a deviated septum. In short, any condition that blocks off the drainage channels of your sinuses can cause a sinus infection.
Basically, the most common reason for a terrible sinusitis is a cold or flu virus which then results in the spreading to the sinuses from the upper airways. In almost all cases, a sinus infection is often accompanied by inflammation and congestion of the sinuses, which requires you to know exactly whats really causing the underlying problem to figure out the best treatment and self-care. Making sure such underlying conditions such as allergies and asthma are well controlled might improve the symptoms of a sinusitis.
You May Like: Hot Toddy For Sinus Infection
My Favorite Home Remedy For Ear Pain Warm Compresses
When I was a little girl, I remember having an ear infection accompanied by one very sore ear. To help me feel better, my mom took a small throw pillow and warmed it up in the oven. She left it in a bit too long, though, and it started to singe. She put the fire out, and I rested my head on one slightly charred pillow and the pain went away.
Nowadays most houses have microwaves, which make it easier to heat up a warm compress for earache treatment. You can buy or make a compress.
We recommend hot packs from Core Products, a small business located in western Wisconsin. They make soft covered hot/cold packs that we use as foot warmers at night and for treating headaches and earaches.
To make a simple warm compress for ear pain relief, place popcorn or rice into an old sock or small pouch. Seal the end and heat in short bursts until warm. Hot water bottles are a great option if you dont have a microwave just make sure you dont get the water too hot.
Read Also: Is Mucinex Good For Sinus Infection
Whats The Difference Between Sinusitis And Rhinitis In Dogs
Sinusitis is the inflammation of the lining of the sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled, bony cavities that connect with the nasal cavities. During a sinus infection, these cavities become filled with fluid and develop inflamed lining.
Rhinitis is the inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose. If both the nose and sinus cavities are affected, the term rhinosinusitis is used.
Both of these conditions can occur alone, or as part of an upper respiratory infection. They also appear similar in dogs, causing many of the same signs of illness.
Recommended Reading: What Is The Best Medicine For Sinus And Chest Congestion
Types Of Chronic Sinusitis Or Chronic Sinus Infections
While acute sinusitis often involves an infection, chronic sinusitis does not. Sometimes, the long-term illness is caused by an infection that hasnt cleared up properly, but most often the exact cause of chronic sinusitis isnt known. But clinicians may categorize chronic sinusitis into one of three types depending on the features present. The most common type of the illness, chronic sinusitis without nasal polyposis, involves swelling and inflammation of the mucous membranes by various non-polyp factors, such as allergies or irritation and infections. Chronic sinusitis with nasal polyposis, on the other hand, involves nasal polyps that are large enough to clog the sinus. Its not always clear why some people develop these polyps and others dont. In chronic sinusitis with fungal allergy, people experience an allergic reaction to fungi in the air, which causes their mucous membranes to produce thick, dense mucus.
Naturally Treating A Sinus Infection At Home
The key to sinusitis relief is to promote natural mucus drainage from the sinus cavities. This drainage can be achieved by reducing the swelling and eliminating the blockage. The most common natural remedies for sinus congestion include the use of sterile water to break up the obstruction so that mucus can drain as intended. Two options for introducing water into nasal cavity involve the use of steamed water or a sinus rinse.
You May Like: Can I Run With A Sinus Infection
Ginger Tea With Garlic
Ginger tea with garlic contains antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, due to the presence of substances like alicin and phenolic compounds, shogaol and zingerone . These substances help to treat symptoms of sinusitis like plugged nose, runny nose, sore throat and general malaise.
This tea also helps to strengthen the immune system and decreases the duration of the sinus infection.
Ingredients
- 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and sliced in half
- 1 cm of ginger root, or about 1/2 a teaspoon of powdered ginger
- 3 cups of water
- Honey to sweeten
How to prepare
Boil the water with the garlic. Removed from the heat, and add the ginger and honey. Strain the infusion and drink.
Ginger should not be consumed by people who take anticoagulants, and therefore should be avoided in the tea in these cases. During pregnancy, you should not exceed 1 g of ginger per day, for up to 4 days.
What Types Of Treatments Are Available For Ear Infections
Many children recover from ear infections without medical intervention. However, your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics depending on the cause and extent of your childs infection. Usually, treatment includes several days of amoxicillin, azithromycin, or augmentin. You may also need to treat a ruptured eardrum with antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eardrops.
If your child is experience severe ear pain, your doctor may suggest using an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage discomfort and aid in sleep. If pain continues, prescription eardrops may be available to anesthetize the eardrum so long as there is no drainage from the ear.
Some parents find that home remedies are effective for alleviating discomfort during an ear infection. Examples include applying a warm compress to your childs ear or putting a few drops of warm olive oil into the ear canal. However, you should never place anything inside your childs ear without first consulting his or her doctor.
Also Check: What To Take For Sinus Pain
Is A Sinus Infection Contagious
The question as to whether or not sinus infections are contagious is hotly debated in my family!
Most peoples sinus infection begins as a respiratory virus. These are spread through hand-to-hand contact and respiratory mist through coughing and sneezing.
However, some sinus infections are caused by structural issues in the nasal and sinus cavities , blockages, or allergies. These types of sinus infection are not contagious.
The fact is, no one really knows for sure, so keep your hands washed and dont sneeze on people!
/7what Causes Sinus Infection
Sinus infection is caused due to dust allergy, chemicals or irritants. It happens when your nasal passage becomes inflamed and infected. Some common symptoms include headache, facial tenderness, pain in the sinus, ears, teeth, fever, facing swelling, sore throat, nasal stuffiness and cough. The condition can only be diagnosed through physical examination. So, if you are facing any of the above symptoms, you must visit your doctor.
Though there are some remedies that can provide you with instant relief. But first, you must recognise what triggers your sinus. For example, fried food, rice and spices can trigger your sinus symptoms. Cold beverages can also be a problem for your sinus. Consuming a good amount of vitamin A can help build a strong defence against sinus infection.
But before you go to your doctor, here are five easy home remedies to try.
Read Also: How Long Does Sinus Surgery Take
You May Like: Is Zyrtec Good For Sinus Pressure
Do These Things Work For Kids
Sinus infections make everyone miserable, children as well as adults!
Most of the tips above also work for kids, but antihistamines arent recommended for young children.
Young children cant blow their noses well, so helping them thin and clear the mucus from their nose is beneficial.
A nasal aspirator or a product like the Nose Frida can be a lifesaver in helping young children breathe through their nose.
A warm bath can help clear the sinuses and take a childs mind off their illness.
Kids are often fascinated by the condensation that forms on surfaces in a steamy room. To occupy them while a hot shower runs in the bathroom, try tracing pictures with them on the mirror!
Inhale Menthol And Camphor
Another inhaled odor that can help open up sinus passages is menthol, which is an ingredient in popular ointments that are used specifically to treat a stuffy nose. These ointments also contain eucalyptus oil and camphor, which combine with menthol to create a powerful scent that immediately relieves sinus pressure. This ointment can be rubbed on your chest and under your nose to deliver its soothing benefits. Unlike eucalyptus oil, this ointment should not be placed in the mouth.
Also Check: Can Sinus Infection Cause Cough
Inhale Diffused Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil has a strong odor that often helps patients find instant relief from sinusitis. Research has found that cineole, the main ingredient in eucalyptus oil, helps people recover from sinus infections more quickly than those who dont use eucalyptus oil. You can inhale eucalyptus oil through a diffuser, or rub some on your temples and chest to open your breathing passages. You can even use food-grade eucalyptus oil and place a drop on the roof of your mouth.
Sinus Relief The Natural Way
Sinus pressure and pain can be mild or quite severe. The cause of these symptoms is often a cold, allergies, or sinusitis . Regardless of what causes your symptoms, relief may be closer than you think.
In the following slides, learn how to treat sinus problems with natural remedies and home remedies. We provide a variety of strategies to combat nasal congestion, from neti pots and saline nasal sprays to hydration and avoiding irritants, starting with humidifying your air.
Breathe Moist Air
You may be wondering how to relieve sinus pressure. For sinus pressure relief that lasts for hours, try keeping a humidifier on in your bedroom or other rooms where you spend a lot of time. Dry air can irritate your sinuses, but keeping air moist can help reduce congestion. Inhaling steam two to four times a day may help, too. Sit in the bathroom with the door closed and the shower running. Make sure the water is hot.
You May Like: Can Sore Throat Cause Sinus Infection
Herbal Remedies For Allergic Rhinitis
We get a lot of questions from patients inquiring about ideas of natural solutions for treating their allergy symptoms. We are devoting this blog to explaining two common types of allergies we most often see at our office in Arizona and share some natural herbal which may help.
Please keep in mind, that we are not giving medical advice in this blog. We cannot properly treat your unique condition or allergy without seeing you or conducting one of our comprehensive allergy tests. We suggest you talk to your doctor.