Over The Counter Meds For A Sinus Infection

Treatments For Sinus Infections Other Than Antibiotics

OTC Sinus Meds

#1: Saline Nasal Wash

Saline nasal wash can be a great way to thin out the mucous in the sinuses enough to clear out the blockage. I recommend starting this early on in the course of the illness to prevent the infection from worsening.

You can even make this at home using 2 cups of water and a 1/2 teaspoon of salt. I would add a 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of baking soda to prevent burning that can occur with use. There are also plenty of over the counter saline nasal sprays that you can purchase. You can use this 4-6 times per day.

#2: Vaporizer

Vaporizers are great because they can also thin out the mucous and make you feel a lot better. An easy home remedy, steam is probably the best way to use this treatment. Beware if you are an asthmatic as the steam could cause worsening of the asthma symptoms.

#3: Steroid Nasal Spray

Steroid nasal sprays such as Flonase have been my go to remedy recently and the great news is that they are now over the counter. The general recommendation is to use 1-2 sprays per nostril daily.

But I have found great relief using 2 sprays in each nostril twice daily. At these higher doses it is important to remember that you should use this short term, no more than 5-7 days.

These medications can significantly reduce inflammation allowing the congestion blockage to clear and significantly alleviate symptoms.

#4: Decongestants

#5: Guaifenesin

Guaifenesin such as Mucinex can certainly break up the mucous, allowing the congestion to clear more quickly.

Understand The Workings Of Allergy Meds

Antihistamines like Allegra and Claritin for instance as well as Zyrtec are marked with a D such as in Allegra-D. This tells you that it is an antihistamine with a decongestant which is known as pseudoephedrine.

In the United States, these drugs have to be bought from a pharmacist with a government ID. Zyrtec, Allegra and Claritin are all antihistamines, they all have different active ingredients but they all belong to the same family of drugs. Theyre non-sedating and very effective.

There are low-cost allergy generics available in various formulations tablet form, liquid form, and chewables all available without a prescription.

You cant really answer this question, which is the best allergy med? An allergist and professor, Dr Ein, gives advice on the matter, saying its the one that gives YOU the greatest relief with the fewest side effects at the lowest price. If one antihistamine isnt working for you, try another one.

How Sinus Infection Is Treated

Why Do Sinus Infections Happen?

The treatment for a sinus infection depends on the type of sinusitis and the source of the inflammation or infection. You might feel better with treatment for your symptoms as your sinus infection resolves.

Acute viral sinusitis can usually resolve on its own, acute bacterial sinusitis can usually be cured with antibiotics, and anti-fungal medications might be needed for treating fungal sinusitis, Getting treatment for allergies that might be contributing to an acute or chronic sinus infection can help, and endoscopic surgery may be needed in some cases of chronic sinusitis.

Treatment of chronic sinusitis may complicated, as abnormal tissue blocking the sinus cavities could require surgery.

Verywell / Tim Liedtke

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Risks Of Sinus Infections

Though most cases of sinus infections are uncomplicated, there are some risks associated with them.

This is mainly because the walls of the sinuses are thin.

They share blood vessels and lymph drainage pathways with the eyes and other parts of the central nervous system.

Some of the rare but serious complications associated with sinus infection include:

Eye infection: If the sinus infection spreads to the eye, it can cause serious damage and vision difficulties.
Brain abscess: This is a rare but life-threatening complication that results when the infection spreads to the brain.
Meningitis: This is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be a very serious complication if not treated early.
Mucocele: This is a benign tumor that can form on the sinus wall as a result of chronic sinus infection.

Hyposmia: the nasal obstruction and inflammation of the olfactory nerve can cause a partial loss of smell.

Ways To Recognize Serious Signs Of Sinus Infections

Acme Physicians Care Sinus Decongestant Congestion Medication

#1: Duration

The length of the infection is an important determinant of the seriousness of the infection.

I usually consider most infections less than 3 weeks to be viral or inflammation related to congestion. At this point, the best treatment is usually medications that decrease the congestion and inflammation. This in turn will alleviate the symptoms and ultimately cure the illness.

When the illness continues beyond 3 weeks, bacterial infection can begin to develop. Though antibiotics can be considered at this point, other treatments may still be the best answer if they have not yet been given a try.

#2: Mucous Color

I will dispel a myth right here and now. Yellowish/greenish mucous does not necessarily mean the infection is bacterial.

Viruses can cause the same color mucous. The reason for the mucous is generally not the actual bacteria or virus, but the bodys immune response to the intruder.

So dont worry just because you see a colored mucous when you blow your nose. This will also improve as the infection abates.

#3: Sinus Pain

Sinus pain can occur anytime throughout a sinus infection. This is normal and means there is inflammation in the sinuses, as we discussed previously.

However, severe pain, redness over the skin, hardened skin over the sinuses, or even a severe headache are not generally normal and can indicate a bacterial infection.

#4: Fever

A fever can be caused by both viruses and bacteria. So how do you differentiate between the two?

Home Remedy For Sinus Infection #5 Vitamin A Vitamind Vitamin C Zinc & Essential Fatty Acids

All of these nutrients are potent remedies for a sinus infection for two basic reasons. Firstly, they help toreduce any inflammation in the body, including in the sinuses. Secondly, they allhelp to boost your immune system, which you now know, is vital to treating andpreventing sinusitis. So either go out and find yourself a good quality multi-vitamin and mineral complex with high amounts of these key nutrients, orpurchase them separately in supplemental form. Also be sure to eat plenty of eggs , pumpkin seeds , chilli peppers and kale , cold waterfatty fish and get lots of sunshine !

Best For Good Size: Les Labs Sinus Infection Over The Counter Medicine

Les Labs is known for creating pragmatic and minimalist medicine for people on the go, and its line of Les Labs Sinus Infection Over The Counter Medicine definitely falls in line with that reputation. The les lab sinus infection over the counter medicine comes with an expiration date and it is very quick. The Manufacturer says: Our natural drug-free formula helps promote sinus & nasal health while supporting lung & respiratory function. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration.

The medicine is perfect for good size and it is used for prescription drugs. Above all, the les labs sinus infection over the counter medicine is used for money back guarantee and it makes a huge difference.

Most customers agree that the medicine is causing unbearable acid indigestion. And, a few say that the medicine is with allergies, and consequently ended up finding this. And, a few say that the bottle recommends taking 1 pill 2 3 times a day.

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What Are Common Side Effects Of Sinus Infection Medications

The most common side effects of sinus infection medications differ by the type of medication you use. Decongestants tend to cause nervousness, insomnia, and a loss of appetite. Side effects of antibiotics include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Antihistamines and steroids can cause dizziness and sleep disturbances.

This is not an exhaustive list of sinus infection medication side effects. If you experience any adverse reactions from a medication or treatment, its always best to consult with your healthcare provider.

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Things To Take Into Consideration

Over-the-Counter Device For Sinus Care: Could It Work For Migraine?

As you compare and contrast your options, it is clear that sinus pressure medicines can be vastly different from each other: this is because different people react differently to certain formulations, so pharmaceutical companies have developed various options to address each persons experience effectively.

Depending on your own bodys needs, as well as your personal preferences, it may be ideal to choose one option over another. Choose the best medicine for sinus pressure by remembering these main considerations when you step into the store.

Treatment Form. Sinus pressure is the result of an accumulation of mucus, which commonly occurs as a cause of a viral or bacterial infection. Most of the treatments you will find for sinus pressure are geared towards resolving the symptom only and dont actually address the infection that initially caused the problem. Regardless, these products are highly effective at providing temporary relief of sinus congestion discomfort.

Most commonly, sinus pressure remedies come in three forms:

Pills. Ideal for people on the go, capsules, and tablets are the slowest acting remedy. Despite this, however, they offer the longest-lasting results. Some pills target more than just sinus congestion, making them an effective remedy for holistic relief. Whats more, pills are also a convenient option for people on the go as theyre fairly easy to take.

How Do You Get Rid Of A Sinus Infection Fast

You can treat a sinus infection at home or with OTC medications for symptom relief, and/or a prescription antibiotic medication, in the case of a bacterial infection. Stay hydrated, use a humidifier, and sleep at an incline to help resolve your sinus infection quickly. Consult your healthcare provider to see if you need an antibiotic.

How Is A Sinus Headache Diagnosed

Usually, a careful history and physical examination can establish the diagnosis of a sinus headache. Blood tests are usually not necessary.
In some cases, the healthcare professional may order a CT scan to obtain images of the sinuses, but this is not common. A negative CT scan and examination can help rule out sinus disease.
Other causes of headaches, including migraines, may initially present with symptoms thought to be from sinus inflammation.

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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.

Managing A Cold With Hypertension

Reactine Sinus & Allergy Non Drowsy 10 Tab

If you cant take a decongestant because of high blood pressure, there are other ways to reduce your cold or allergy symptoms:

Take Coricidin HBP, which is free of decongestants
Drink plenty of fluids including water, juice, tea and soup to prevent dehydration and clear mucus from your lungs
Take a pain reliever such as Tylenol or Motrin for fever, sore throat, body aches and headache
Flush your sinuses with a saline spray to relieve nasal congestion
Soothe a sore or scratchy throat with lozenges
Use a vaporizer or humidifier if necessary to boost humidity
Get plenty of rest
Return to your doctor after five to seven days to make sure youre on the road to recovery

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Vicks Vapoinhaler Portable Nasal Inhaler 2 Count

Provides allergy medicine for sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose or throat, and itchy, watery eyes and cold symptoms like sneezing and runny nose.
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100-count pack of benadryl ultratabs antihistamine allergy relief tablets each containing 25 mg of the antihistamine diphenhydramine hcl for allergy relief that works when you need it most.
Active ingredient, diphenhydramine hcl, provides relief for hay fever or other upper respiratory allergy symptoms and cold symptoms like sneezing and runny nose.
Allergy medicine tablets for multi-symptom allergy relief intended to be used by adults and children ages six and up for relief of both indoor and outdoor allergies.

Is It Safe To Take Sinus Decongestants While Pregnant

It depends on the active ingredient. OTC pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine should only be used during pregnancy under your doctors supervision. They should not be used during the first trimester, only after, and even then, only with your doctors recommendation.

Talk with your doctor before using drugs containing these ingredients if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Research in animals has shown adverse effects on the fetus when the mother takes these drugs. There havent been enough studies with humans to be certain how the drug might affect the fetus. These drugs should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.

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Check If You Have Sinusitis

Which OTC Nasal Steroid Should You Use?

Sinusitis is common after a cold or flu.

Symptoms of sinusitis include:

pain, swelling and tenderness around your cheeks, eyes or forehead
a reduced sense of smell
green or yellow mucus from your nose
a sinus headache

Signs of sinusitis in young children may also include irritability, difficulty feeding, and breathing through their mouth.

The sinuses are small, empty spaces behind your cheekbones and forehead that connect to the inside of the nose.

Sinusitis causes the lining of the sinuses to swell up.

This stops mucus draining into your nose and throat properly, making you feel blocked up.

Recommended Reading: How To Know If You Have Sinus Problems

Sinus Infection Medication For Bacterial Causes

Bacterial sinus infections are caused by large amounts of foreign bacteria creating colonies in the sinuses, causing inflammation and infection. This happens when you touch your nose, eyes, or ears too often without washing your hands frequently.

There are several bacterial infections that may result in a sinus infection if symptoms worsen over time.

If over-the-counter medications are not working, you may need to seek a prescription for antibiotics as a sinus infection medication. Luckily, our sister site PlushCare gives you access to top doctors who can write prescriptions for many medications, including antibiotics for sinusitismake an appointment through PlushCare to get started.

Medicine For Cold And Sinus

Headache, nasal pain, congestion, runny nose and fatigue.

Theres no doubt that these symptoms can make you feel miserable, but it can be hard to tell whats causing the discomfort. Is it a cold or sinus infection? Both of these illnesses share many of the same symptoms, and treatment is often similar, too. Here youll learn about colds and sinus infections, including cold and sinus medicines.

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Best Medicines For Chest Congestion 2020

Congestion throughout the sinus is one thing, but congestion in the chest is a completely different problem. Giving you a heavy feeling when you breathe and a chesty quality to your cough, chest congestion can make anyone feel weak. However, for as difficult and tiring as chest congestion might feel, it is one of the most common symptoms of the common cold and flu.

Luckily, no one has to suffer through the pains of chest congestion, especially these days when affordable and accessible remedies are available. Of course, it is easy to be able to simply walk into a drugstore and ask for the best medicine for chest congestion, but choosing can be difficult with so many options available. How do you know which is the right one?

Find out how to choose the best chest decongestant by taking cues from this helpful buying guide.

Sinus Infection Medications: Medicines That Help Treat Sinusitis

Sydney Garrow

Sydney is a contributing health writer and editor who enjoys shedding light on health topics, making information available to anyone who wants it, and ending stigmas or lack of access to care and treatment.

Certified by

Po-Chang Hsu, M.D.

Dr. Hsu received his medical degree from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts, and holds a Masters of Science degree from both Harvard University and Tufts University. Outside of the medical profession, Dr. Hsu loves to write, learn new languages, and travel.

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