How To Get Rid Sinus Infection Without Antibiotic

Can A Sinus Infection Last For Months

Sinusitis wont go away at the drop of a hat. It tends to linger and, if left untreated, it can last for months. Again, its best to take a trip to your doctors office if your symptoms last longer than one week.

Note that there is a chance that long-term sinus issues may be caused by allergens. If this is the case, then your sinus symptoms will likely last until you can escape the allergen or have the allergies treated.

When Should I Ask My Doctor About A Sinus Infection

As with any other medical condition, it is imperative that you see a doctor if certain worrisome symptoms begin to appear. This is especially true during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. While the first hint of sinus pain may not be a reason to head to the doctor, if you have been exposed to others who have tested positive or may be infected with the coronavirus, you should get tested if you begin feeling poorly. Similarly, a bit of nasal decongestion may not be cause for concern, but if you begin experiencing severe shortness of breath, get medical help immediately.

One of the reasons many people do not seek medical attention when they should is uncertainty about when they can get an appointment with their healthcare provider. At TrustCare, our many walk-in clinics are open every day of the week to make sure you can get the care you need without the hassle of making an appointment. If you are experiencing symptoms that seem like more than a bit of nasal congestion, visit one of our TrustCare locations today.

In the United States, sinusitis is the fifth most common medical diagnosis for which antibiotics are prescribed these days. The management of acute and chronic sinusitis is also costing this country over $11 billion every year. That doesnt even include the economic impact of lost work time due to illness.

What Are The Common Home Remedies To Treat Sinus Infection

The nine common home remedies to treat sinus infection include:

• At-home vaporizer or humidifier: It may help relieve sinus symptoms. Sometimes a hot shower may also relieve sinus symptoms.
• Use of lavender essential oil, peppermint essential oil, and eucalyptus oil while breathing steam may relieve nasal pressure.
• A warm compress over the nose and forehead helps relieve sinus pressure.
• Use of a syringe or a neti pot to stream a solution of non-iodized salt, baking soda, and lukewarm distilled water through the nostrils to help keep nasal passages clean. Also, a patient may choose a product from a pharmacy that is already prepared and ready to mix from packets.
• Drink warm water to stay hydrated.
• Drinking warm ginger tea with turmeric may help relieve nasal congestion.
• Drinking warm water with apple cider vinegar may help in fighting a sinus infection. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties and is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, calcium, and magnesium which aids in treating sinus infection. It works by loosening up the mucous and clearing nasal passages.
• Eat a balanced diet that also includes spices, and a diet rich in vitamin C and minerals help build immunity to fight infection.
• Sleep with the head elevated at night or keeping a humidifier running at home to avoid an arid environment may help relieve sinus pressure.

Recommended Reading: How To Stop Sinus Infection Pain

What To Do For Chronic Sinusitis

If youre suffering from chronic sinusitis or you are getting frequent sinus infections you should see your doctor, says Dr. Sindwani.

Your doctor will swab your nose to collect mucus. Culturing it in a laboratory will reveal which type of bacteria is causing the infection so the right antibiotic can be prescribed.

Treat early sinus infection symptoms with rest, hydration and over-the-counter sprays and decongestants. But dont look for an antibiotic unless your illness extends beyond a week, he says. Then check in with your doctor for a prescription and let him or her know if your condition worsens.

Most Sinus Infections Dont Require Antibiotics

Ah, sinus infections. The New England Journal of Medicine published a clinical practice review of acute sinus infections in adults, that is, sinus infections of up to four weeks. The need for an updated review was likely spurred by the disconcerting fact that while the vast majority of acute sinus infections will improve or even clear on their own without antibiotics within one to two weeks, most end up being treated with antibiotics.

It is this discrepancy that has clinical researchers and public health folks jumping up and down in alarm, because more unnecessary prescriptions for antibiotics mean more side effects and higher bacterial resistance rates. But on the other hand, while 85% of sinus infections improve or clear on their own, theres the 15% that do not. Potential complications are rare, but serious, and include brain infections, even abscesses.

Don’t Miss: Best Sinus Medicine With High Blood Pressure

How To Get Rid Of A Sinus Infection Without Antibiotics

This article was medically reviewed by . Dr. Litza is a board certified Family Medicine Physician in Wisconsin. She is a practicing Physician and taught as a Clinical Professor for 13 years, after receiving her MD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health in 1998.There are 20 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 83,302 times.

Sinusitis is an inflammation of paranasal sinuses most commonly due to an infection, underlying allergy or various autoimmune processes. The sinuses are small cavities in the skull that are normally filled with air. Sinusitis is an inflammation of the tissue that lines these cavities. In some cases, the swelling of this tissue blocks off the entry of the sinuses, trapping mucus and air inside them. This can cause pain in the cheeks, runny nose, and headache over the forehead region sometimes, it may lead to a secondary bacterial infection.XTrustworthy SourceCleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world’s leading hospitalsGo to source Acute sinusitis resolves in 4 weeks whereas chronic sinusitis goes beyond 12 weeks and may keep on recurring for years. However, in most cases, sinusitis can be easily treated even without antibiotics.XTrustworthy SourceCleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world’s leading hospitalsGo to source

What Is The Fastest Way To Get Rid Of Sinusitis

When you have a sinus infection, you often have to go through your day in pain and in a fog. Sinusitis, or infection of the sinuses, is incredibly common, but many people suffer through it rather than get it treated. At Asthma Allergy Centre in Tigard, McMinnville, or Beaver, OR, we use a variety of sinus management treatments to reduce the inflammation and immune response that are likely behind your sinus problems. Check out on how to get rid of sinusitis.

Read Also: Peppermint Oil For Sinus Relief

Will Sinus Infection Clear On Its Own

Sinusitis often develops after a cold or viral infection. Most sinus infections improve on their own, but sometimes they develop into a bacterial infection swelling, inflammation, and mucus production caused by the cold can lead to blockage in the nasal passages, which may encourage the growth of bacteria.

Consider Using A Supplement Such As The Enzyme Bromelain

Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in the pineapple plant that is sold as a dietary supplement. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health , you can get it as a powder, cream, tablet, or capsule, sometimes in combination with other ingredients.

According to a research published in the journal Laryngoscope, bromelain has been studied for sinusitis because it is thought to be effective in taming inflammation. A small number of double-blind studies has found bromelain improves sinus symptoms more than a placebo, the review found.

Research published in Alternative Medicine Review indicated that oral doses of bromelain are typically from 500 to 1000 milligrams per day, but some people take 2000 mg.

Although bromelain is natural, that doesnt mean there cant be side effects. The NCCIH cautions that some people experience allergic reactions, GI issues, menstrual problems, and an increased heart rate.

RELATED: Do You Need a Vitamin D Supplement? Everything to Know

You May Like: Best Cure For Sinus Infection

How To Prevent Sinusitis

• Drink a lot, whether it is water or juice. More than two liters a day, especially if the symptoms continue.
• Avoid dust or smoke pollutionbecause this further irritates the nasal cavity.
• I prefer humid places, and To wet the room, you can place water or use special equipment.
• Wet your nose with compresses of hot water. Showers are also recommended because the steam helps release the nasal sinuses.
• Do not use too many inhalers because, in the long run, they will be counterproductive.
• Clean your nose well. You can find some products containing water and salt in the pharmacy.

When Does Antibiotic Resistance Occur

Antibiotic resistance occurs in a persons own body and within the community when certain drugs no longer work for a specific type of germ. This can occur when bacteria change in response to exposure to antibiotics so that the antibiotics no longer work efficiently against the bacteria.

Unfortunately, it’s hard to know if a sinus infection is bacterial, viral, or has other causes based on symptoms alone. Because viral sinus infections tend to improve in 5 to 7 days, healthcare providers will usually only prescribe antibiotics if your symptoms go on for longer than this. A sinus infection that persists for longer than a week or continues to get worse during this time period is more likely to be bacterial.

Therefore, allergists and other specialists recommend limiting the use of antibiotics unless:

• Symptoms last over seven to 10 days
• A fever is present

You May Like: Wal Phed Sinus And Allergy

What You Can Do To Soothe A Cold Or Ear Infection:

• Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and head pressure.
• Try a cool-mist humidifier or shower steam to loosen congestion.
• Try over-the-counter saline drops to clear the nose.
• Consider sinus rinses or devices to remove mucus from young childrens noses.
• For children older than age 1, honey in warm water can soothe a cough.
• For older children, an extra pillow under their head can help them sleep better.

Whats Happening In My Body

Most sinus infections come from colds that start in the nose.

A lot of sinus infections are caused by coronaviruses.

These viruses replicate in the nose. Your immune system then kicks off an inflammatory response to help kill the virus. This can cause swelling in the sinuses, leading to your symptoms.

Unlike bacterial infections, viral infections dont respond to antibiotics and usually just need to run their course. But you dont have to take it lying down!

Don’t Miss: What Is The Best Medication For A Sinus Infection

How To Treat A Sinus Infection Without Antibiotics

Before you consider antibiotics, a sinus infection can be treated without leaving at home. Some of the home remedies to treat a sinus infection without antibiotics include:

How To Get Rid Of Sinus Infections In 24 Hours

If you are one of the millions of Americans that battle frequent or long-term sinus infections and are seeking a sinusitis treatment that does not involve risky surgery, there is good news sinusitis treatment is available. Balloon Sinuplasty is a safe and minimally invasive solution for long-lasting relief from sinus infection causes.

This safe and simple sinus infection treatment can be done in the comfort of the office with our Board Certified Otolaryngologist, Dr. Brian Lee. The procedure gently inflates the sinus cavity to clear the blockage and restore the natural flow from the body. If you would like to know more about balloon sinuplasty and how to cure sinus infections permanently, schedule your appointment today and start your journey toward real and lasting sinus infection relief.

Read Also: Home Remedies For Clogged Ear From Sinus Infection

How To Treat Sinus Infections Without Antibiotics

While sinus infections caused by viruses, allergies, or other non-bacterial factors may not require antibiotics, they still cause the same symptoms which make you feel sick.

Symptoms of a sinus infection include:

• Nasal congestion
• Pain or tenderness around the eyes, cheeks, or forehead
• Thick nasal or post-nasal drainage

Taking steps to alleviate your sinusitis symptoms is often the best treatment to lessen your discomfort.

Sinus infection treatment options include:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Rest, especially the first few days, to help your body fight the infection
• Moisturize the air with a cool-mist vaporizer
• Elevate your head while sleeping to decrease post-nasal drip
• Take warm showers or baths, as steam can soothe your sore throat and loosen mucus
• Gargle with warm salt water for a sore throat
• Use saline nasal spray or nasal irrigation kit to alleviate congestion
• Use over-the-counter treatments, such as nasal drops and sprays or pseudoephedrine pills, as your doctor recommends them

What Not to Do for a Sinus Infection

You should always follow your doctors instructions when you are diagnosed with a sinus infection.

Do not:

How Can I Treat Chronic Sinus Infections Without Antibiotics

If youre suffering from chronic sinusitis , you understand all too well that its a painful condition. As it lingers for weeks on end, you grow weary of having to endure unpleasant, irritating symptoms.

You may even plead with your doctor to give you an antibiotic, expecting instant relief.

In this blog, the sinus specialists at DFW Sinus Select will address if you can treat chronic sinus infections without antibiotics.

You May Like: How To Prevent Sinus Migraines

Treating Sinus Infections Without Antibiotics

Tomah, WI – People often want antibiotics to tackle a sinus infection but that might not be the best treatment since most infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics fight bacteria, not viruses.

There are also complications that can develop with dependency on these drugs. The more antibiotics are used the less effective they can become, with possible side effects like dizziness, stomach problems and rashes.

Instead of turning to antibiotics, Alan Conway, M.D., family physician at Mayo Clinic Health System Franciscan Healthcare in Tomah, suggests some alternative methods of treatment. Dr. Conway says, First of all, you should give yourself enough rest. Your body needs the time to fight the infection with full force, especially in the first few days when symptoms are the most severe.

Dr. Conway also says. Watch out for over-the-counter products that contain oxymetazoline. These products may relieve symptoms for a few days, but they can cause congestion if used longer than three days. Instead, use generic pseudoephedrine pills if you are stuffed up for more than three days.

Sinus infections can turn into a bacterial infection, due to the prolonged blockage in the sinus cavity. It is not easy to determine whether the infection is viral or bacterial, considering that the symptoms are the same for both. Even if the infection becomes bacterial, 70% of the time the infection will go away within two weeks without antibiotics.

# # #

Sinusitis: 5 Amazing Natural Remedies To Unclog Stuffy Nose

Sinusitis develops when mucus builds up in the cavities between the nose and head. This causes the cavities to become swollen and inflamed. The skeletal system has many air pockets or sinus cavities lined by the mucus membranes. Sinusitis disturbs the way mucus membrane drains and makes your nose stuffy and breathing difficult. Also Read: Top 3 Remedies To Try For Chronic Sinusitis

The regions around the eyes may look swollen and tender. A sinus infection or recurrent sinusitis can cause pain and pressure in your face and it may take a toll on your normal activities.Having Breathing Trouble Due To Blocked Nose? Try Some Of Our Ayurvedic Supplements For Sinusitis!

Sinusitis relapses often which results in discomfort and pressure around the nose, poor sense of smell and taste, headache, fatigue and tiredness. Sinusitis is caused when the small hair cells that line the nose do not eliminate mucus causing blockages. Some of the causes for sinusitis include:

• Viral or fungal or bacterial infections
• Other health problems like deviated nasal septum or nasal polyps

People suffering from sinusitis lookout for simple and effective home remedies to ease pain and discomfort. Home remedies and palliative measures can work effectively to calm the irritated passage and improve the flow of mucus so that you dont feel stuffed.1. Essential Oils

Take a deep breath and inhale the vapours of these essential oils.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

But complications of colds can occur, including:

You May Like: What To Take For Bad Sinus Headache

Sinus Infection Medication For Viral Causes

Viral sinus infections are usually a symptom of the common cold or other viruses. When these viruses take a toll on your body, they sometimes spread to your sinuses and cause inflammation over time.

While you may be able to fend off a full-blown sinus infection with over-the-counter solutions, once youre at a certain point of inflammation, you might require stronger meds that only a doctor can prescribe.

Sinus Infections Most Clear Up Without Antibiotics

ROCHESTER, Minn. Sinus congestion and the common cold go hand in hand. Usually, congestion goes away within a week or so as the body fights off the illness. But sinus congestion and a feeling of sickness can linger and worsen, which may indicate a bacterial infection.

The October issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter covers sinus problems, including symptoms of a bacterial infection and when antibiotic treatment may help clear out the stuffiness.

Sinus inflammation often begins with a cold, caused by a virus. When the sinuses become irritated and inflamed, sinus tissues swell. Expansion of these tissues can close off the ostia, the small openings that allow mucus to drain out of the sinus cavities. That blockage creates a feeling of stuffiness. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses and typically arent recommended within the first week of developing a cold.

The stagnant, moist environment of a blocked sinus cavity gives bacteria a place to grow and thrive. If bacterial infection develops, antibiotics may have a role in treatment. Its tricky to determine whether sinusitis is caused by a virus or bacteria. The symptoms congestion, facial pain, drainage of mucus, cough, headache and feeling unwell can occur with both types of infections.

The likelihood of bacterial infection increases when:

You May Like: How Sinus Infection Is Diagnosed