Sinus Infection
Page address: https://www.mnsu.edu/shs/caringforacutesinusitis.htmlWhat causes a sinus infection?
Anything that blocks your sinus opening can cause sinusitis. A build–up of mucus makes a good place for germs to grow.
Common causes of Sinus Infection include:
- Colds or upper respiratory infections
- Hay fever or allergies
- Cigarette smoke
- Air travel or underwater swimming
Some sinus infections get better on their own. Some many need to be treated with an antibiotic.
Here are things you can do help a sinus infection:
- Get plenty of rest. when you go to sleep, try lying on the side that is least congested (where you breath best), because lying down increases nasal congestion.
- Sip hot liquids and drink plenty of fluids.
- Apply moist heat by holding a hot, wet towel against your face or breathe in steam. (if you're inhaling steam, be sure to cover your entire face with a cloth or towel first, so you don't burn yourself).
- Use over–the–computer medicines such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain. Don't use aspirin if you're allergic to it or under age 20.
- Talk with your doctor before using cold remedies. Some cold medicines can make a sinus infection worse by drying out mucous membranes and blocking sinus openings. Other medicines, disturb your sleep, make you nervous or raise your blood pressure or pulse.
- If you use a nose spray with a decongestant in it, don't use it for more than three days. If you use more than three days, your nasal swelling may get worse when you stop the medicine. Use a short–acting nasal decongestant (brand names: Neo–Synephrine, Afrin 4 Hour), since long–acting kinds (brand names: Dristan 12 hour, Afrin 12–hour) may slow healing.