A sinus infection occurs when your sinuses--cavities around the nasal passages--become blocked with mucus, inflamed and swollen. While an unpleasant condition, sinus infection, or sinusitis, is treatable. With the aid of your physician, as well as certain home remedies to help with the miseries, you can effectively treat a sinus infection, relieving discomfort and speeding up recovery time in the process.
Step 1
Visit your physician first, to determine whether you need to start taking an antibiotic. Although some sinus infections go away on their own, reports the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, many require a course of oral antibiotics to help kill the bacteria in the sinus cavities. Follow your doctor's directions on how to take your medication.
Step 2
Take a decongestant to breathe easier and reduce uncomfortable swelling. You can find these over-the-counter medications at your local pharmacy. Taking decongestants will help your nasal passages stay clear of excess mucus, as well as allow your sinuses to drain, speeding along your recovery.
Step 3
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help with the painful pressure of sinusitis. Sinus infections may increase post-nasal drip, which can often cause a sore throat as infected mucus drains down. A mild pain reliever will help with a sore throat, as well as with pressure-related headaches.
Step 4
Cover your nose, cheeks and eyes with a damp, warm towel as many times as needed. This can bring instant relief from facial pain.
Step 5
Rinse your sinuses with a saline solution, also available at many pharmacies. Many varieties exist, including squeeze-bottles that can be of great benefit in flushing your sinuses of infected mucus, clearing the path for antibiotics to act more effectively. Drink plenty of fluids to help keep your mucus thin, allowing your sinuses to drain more efficiently.
Step 6
Stack an extra pillow or two behind your head when you sleep at night. Sleeping with your head elevated, reports MayoClinic.com, helps your sinuses drain. With increased sinus drainage and less congestion, you can also get the extra sleep you need to shake off the sinus infection.
Tips and Warnings
- If your sinus infection persists after your complete a course of antibiotics, contact your doctor immediately to explore further treatment options.
Things You'll Need
- Physician
- Decongestant medicine
- Pain reliever
- Saline sinus rinse
- Towel
- Extra pillows
