A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, causes your nasal passages to become inflamed and swollen, interfering with drainage resulting in a build up of mucus, MayoClinic.com explains. There are two types of sinusitis: acute and chronic. The common cold is usually the cause of the acute type, and treatment consists of home remedies. Chronic sinusitis lasts eight weeks or more, with infection being the primary cause. Treatment varies according to the type of of sinusitis you are experiencing.
Step 1
Visit t your doctor for a definitive diagnosis. Before your doctor can determine how to treat and cure your sinus infection, he needs to diagnose the cause of your symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. He may perform a physical exam in combination with cultures and imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRIs, to determine if your sinusitis is acute or chronic. These exams also rule out underlying medical conditions such as nasal polyps.
Step 2
Take an antibiotic. Sinusitis, whether acute or chronic, is sometimes caused by a bacterial infection. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to cure the infection. The most commonly prescribed include amoxicillin and doxycycline. MayoClinic.com explains that if the infection does not subside or recurs, the doctor may try another antibiotic.
Step 3
Undergo immunotherapy, or allergy shots. If allergies are the cause of your sinusitis, your doctor may choose immunotherapy as a form of treatment. This reduces your body's reaction to the allergens that trigger your allergies, thus treating your condition.
Step 4
Go for endoscopic sinus surgery. A continuous resistance to treatment or medication may warrant surgery. MayoClinic.com explains that during the procedure, the doctor explores your nasal passages with a thin, flexible tube. This has a light attached to help him find the source of obstruction. He then removes this obstruction using various tools.
