1. Manage Noninfectious Sinusitis With Antihistamines
If your doctor has determined that airborne irritants or histamines are the cause of your sinus problems, you may be directed to bring your symptoms under control using antihistamines. Sinus infections can, in broad terms, be divided into two categories: infectious and noninfectious. The latter category is frequently rooted in allergy symptoms, and both over-the-counter and prescription medicines can reduce your nasal irritation.
2. Decongestants Provide Symptom Relief
Your symptoms can also be controlled using decongestants, which are available in a variety of strengths and distribution formats. You can use decongestant nasal sprays, or your doctor can recommend decongestants which come in tablet form as well. These medicines promote drainage of your nasal cavities. You can supplement their action by drinking a lot of water, since keeping hydrated helps to thin out your mucus.
3. Steroids Reduce Inflammation and Open Nasal Passageways
Steroid treatments work to treat the inflammation in your nasal cavities which traps mucus buildups inside your sinuses. If you use these products, you should read package directions very closely, since steroids delivered in nasal spray form can present hazards if overused. You can also get these drugs in pill form. Prednisone, a synthetic anti-inflammatory, can be used to treat almost 30 different conditions, including sinus infections.
4. Natural Ways to Manage Symptoms
If you prefer to keep your symptoms under control using drug-free methods, you have a number of options available to you. The first is to inhale steam, which will break up thick mucus buildup and promote the drainage of your sinus cavities. You can do this using a vaporizer, steam from a hot shower or plain old boiling water. A second option which works well for some people is to place a heating pad or hot water bottle over your sinus cavities while laying down with your head elevated. It's best to keep the heat at a relatively low level, though, to promote the gradual thinning out of built-up mucus deposits.
