Can You Have A Dry Sinus Infection

Tips Products And Home Remedies For A Dry Nose That Wont Quit

Dry nose, either on the skin around the nose or inside the nasal passages, can be very uncomfortable and difficult to manageâespecially if you still have cold symptoms that make you want to rub your nose even more. Nose dryness may occur on its own or may be associated with other nasal symptoms like runny nose.1 On the skin around the nose, it can also be associated with crusting, scabs, and bleeding.

The good news is, you can help these symptoms, as long as you know what youâre targeting. For example, Sinex Saline can help with nasal dryness in the nose, and Sinex Nasal Balm can help with dry skin around the nostrils.

For some people, nose dryness occurs infrequently, and the cause is easy to pinpoint. For others, dry nose can be a recurrent, nagging problem that reduces quality of life. Keep reading to understand why dry nose occurs in and around the nose, as well as the best ways to prevent and help it.

What Causes a Dry Nose: Dry Nasal Passages vs Dry Skin Around the Nose

Dry noses can come about for many reasons. To start, letâs clarify the difference between dry nasal passages versus dry skin around the nose.

Nose dryness in the nasal passages can happen as a result of cold and flu virus symptoms, as well as environmental factors.1 As we get older, nasal anatomical changes can even cause or exacerbate dry nose and impair breathing that occurs through the nose.1

What happens when you have a dry nose

How can I prevent nose dryness?

Preventing Dry Nasal Passages

How To Stop Postnasal Drip

A combination of preventative measures and medications can help put a stop to postnasal drip. Healthcare providers may recommend:

• Staying hydrated, which can also help to thin mucus

• Use a humidifier or vaporizer to keep the air moist

• Propping yourself up with extra pillows when you sleep, so the mucus doesnt collect in the back of your throat

• An oral medication such as guaifenesin , which can thin mucus

Its important to keep in mind that treatment for postnasal drip usually depends on what might be causing it. For instance, if your symptoms are caused by allergies, the first step might be trying to pinpoint what you are allergic to and avoiding those foods or triggers to the extent possible.

As a next step, there are several over-the-counter and prescription medications that can provide additional relief. They can help treat postnasal drip by calming down inflammation and thinning or drying up the mucus. Lets take a look at the different types of medications that you and a healthcare provider can consider to help stop postnasal drip.

Increase Your Fluid Intake

Drinking more fluids, specifically water, may help to thin out mucus. This may reduce the stuffed or clogged feeling in your nose and sinuses. It may also be helpful to limit alcohol, which can dehydrate you and dry you out even more.

Try to drink more water during the summertime, when temperatures rise, and when you engage in physical activity. If plain water isn’t appealing to you, try adding a lemon to your water, drink flavored water, or try an electrolyte beverage.

Sleeping with a humidifier, a machine that adds moisture to the air, may help:

• Keep your mucous membranes moist
• Ease some breathing issues

Most humidifiers need distilled water or frequent cleaning in order to keep bacteria from growing in the system. You can also consider purchasing a more expensive self-cleaning humidifier.

Humidifiers can be added to your heating/cooling system. This is the most expensive option, but it allows you to control the humidity levels in your home year round.

You May Like: Can You Fight Infection Without Antibiotics

Can A Sinus Infection Affect Your Eye

HomeDon’t know your problem?SmartDocAIStart Your Care

Can a Sinus Infection Affect Your Eye?

Absolutely! Sinusitis, otherwise called a sinus infection, occurs when pesky bacteria and viruses invade the sinus cavities located in the face. These spaces in the face can fill with mucous, and that mucous can become infected. Youll know when you have a sinus infection because the sinus cavities will be filled with fluids and youll feel pressure around them. Sinus Infections can affect your eyes in a few different ways.

One of the hallmark symptoms of a sinus infection is feeling pressure build up in your face. You may even feel pressure behind your eyes. Thats because, all the sinus areas Frontal, Ethmoid, Sphenoid, and Maxillary, sort of surround the eyes anatomically. The Ethmoid sinuses are located at the nose bridge and extend down the nose on each side of the nose, directly beside each eye. The Frontal sinus extends to the nose bridge above each eyebrow.

Our SmartDocMD online physicians currently offer diagnosis and sinus infection treatment online to anyone in the state of California. Our offices are based in the Bay Area but our service is available throughout the state. We are planning on expanding to other states, so check back for updates.

Preventing Sinus Infections And Bronchitis

The best way to prevent both sinus infections and bronchitis is to wash your hands regularly and try to minimize your contact with someone who has a cold.

If you have allergies, try to manage those symptoms well and avoid allergens as much as possible. Both can reduce your risk of developing a sinus infection. This includes avoiding cigarette smoke and other air contaminants, which can irritate and inflame the lungs and nasal passages.

Finally, regular use of a humidifier adds moisture to the air and may help prevent sinusitis. It is critical, however, to regularly clean the humidifier to assure it is free of mold.

There is some evidence that an annual flu shot can reduce your chances of getting bronchitis, as flu viruses have been shown to be a significant cause of bronchitis. Additionally, avoiding cold and damp environments can reduce your risk of developing bronchitis.

At Columbia Allergy, we are experts in the treatment of asthma or allergies. Our providers are here to help with a patient-focused approach. Contact us at any of our convenient locations in California, Oregon, Idaho, or Washington to learn more about how we can help with your unique challenges and goals.

Also Check: Advil Cold And Sinus Liquid Gels Directions

You May Like: Do Antibiotics Cure Yeast Infections

What’s A Sinus Infection Again

So, a sinus infection is technically called sinusitis, and it’s basically the term for when your sinuses are inflamed, according to the US National Library of Medicine . As for what those sinuses are, exactly, they’re “pockets in the face next to the nose that are typically full of air,” Philip Chen, MD, otolaryngologist with UT Health San Antonio, tells Health. “These pockets have a lining of mucosa that helps keep the sinus healthy,” which is what becomes inflamed when the sinuses are infected.

Another type of sinus infection, rhinosinusitis, occurs when the lining of the sinus cavities ar swollen, along with the lining of the nasal cavity, says Dr. Chen.

As for what causes a sinus infection, it’s typically a condition that blocks the sinuses, like a viral upper respiratory tract infection , or allergies, Landon Duyka, MD, otolaryngologist at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, tells ?Health. The blockage ultimately “allows for an infection to develop and progress within the sinuses.

RELATED: Is It a Sinus Infection or a Cold? Here’s How to Tell the Difference

Check If You Have Sinusitis

Sinusitis is common after a cold or flu.

Symptoms of sinusitis include:

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

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.

Don’t Miss: Do Antibiotics Help Yeast Infections

Home Remedies To Treat Sinus Infection

There are at home remedies as well, which can ease a sinus infection and its corresponding symptoms. Home remedies for a sinus infection include:

• Taking a hot shower and inhaling steam through the nose
• Using a steam vaporizer
• Using topical medication with menthol on your chest
• Drinking plenty of fluids to thin out mucous
• Spicy foods to dissolve mucous
• Salt-water rinse through the nasal cavity
• Putting apple cider vinegar in hot water and drinking it like a tea
• Avoiding alcohol, smoke or dry air

These home remedies are effective ways to get your breathing healthy once again, along with reducing headaches, pressure and ridding yourself of mucous.

Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.

Causes Of Sinus Infection

There may be several causes of sinus infection. Typically a sinus infection starts from a cold, and develops because the mucus in your sinus does not drain properly and causes an infection in your sinus cavity. Most sinus infections are viral but some are bacterial.

Allergies can also cause a sinus infection. More severe causes included a deviated septum, nasal bone spur, or polyps in your nose. If you have recurrent acute sinusitis, your doctor may run additional tests to rule out a different medical condition causing your sinus infections.

Also Check: If Tooth Hurts Is It Infected

Chemical And Environmental Irritants

Many chemicals and products for cleaning, home repair, and more can irritate your nasal passages and sinuses. This can cause you to have dry sinuses, sore throat, dry nose, nosebleeds, or other symptoms similar to allergies. Some chemicals and products that can irritate your sinuses include:

• household cleaning products
• industrial irritants
• paint or varnish fumes

There are many ways you can treat dry sinuses at home to alleviate discomfort caused by seasonal allergies, irritation from chemicals, or drying from medications or dry air. To get relief, you can:

• place a humidifier in your bedroom at night to keep the air from getting too dry
• stop taking drying medications, such as antihistamines
• drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
• get some fresh air if the air in your house is stale or stagnant
• remove as many allergens and irritants from your environment as possible
• irrigate your sinuses with sterile saline using a neti pot or similar product
• use nasal spray to hydrate and lubricate your nasal passages and sinuses
• take a hot shower and inhale the steam

In some cases, your doctor might need to recommend treatment for your dry sinuses. Make an appointment with your doctor if you:

• have an autoimmune disorder like Sjögren syndrome
• are taking prescription medication that causes dry sinuses
• think you might have a sinus infection

Your doctor may:

How To Prevent Sinusitis

• Drink a lot, whether it is water or juice. More than two liters a day, especially if the symptoms continue.
• Avoid dust or smoke pollutionbecause this further irritates the nasal cavity.
• I prefer humid places, and To wet the room, you can place water or use special equipment.
• Wet your nose with compresses of hot water. Showers are also recommended because the steam helps release the nasal sinuses.
• Do not use too many inhalers because, in the long run, they will be counterproductive.
• Clean your nose well. You can find some products containing water and salt in the pharmacy.

Also Check: Medication For Sinus Pressure With High Blood Pressure

Recommended Reading: Can I Get An Infection From A Dental Cleaning

Does A Sinus Infection Cause Dizziness

• 10:37 am

Sinus infections are well known for resulting in pain or uncomfortableness, as well as trouble breathing properly. But if you are experiencing feelings of dizziness during a sinus infection, youre probably wondering if it could be caused by your sinus infection or whether its a completely different issue. In this blog well go over whether sinus infections can cause dizziness, and why its so.

Sinus Infection And Dizziness Treatment

To treat a sinus infection, its important to understand the underlying cause. A sinus infection can often pass on its own without the need for treatment, however, if dizziness is a symptom, then treatment is warranted.

If the cause of a sinus infection is bacterial, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Over the counter decongestants can also be useful to ease symptoms and clear up breathing.

Also Check: Antibiotics For Sinus Infection And Ear Infection

Avoid Sinus Pain Triggers

One of the most important things to avoid is over-the-counter nasal decongestant sprays. They may give some fast relief, but after a few days they make sinus pressure and nasal congestion much worse, warns Das. Some other things you can do to prevent sinus pain include avoiding alcohol, which can aggravate sinus pain and congestion cleaning your humidifier to avoid fungal allergies washing your bedding in hot water to decrease allergy exposure and avoiding swimming, diving, or flying when you have sinusitis, a common cold, or nasal allergy.

Treatment For Sinusitis From A Gp

If you have sinusitis, a GP may be able to recommend other medicines to help with your symptoms, such as:

• steroid nasal sprays or drops â to reduce the swelling in your sinuses
• antihistamines â if an allergy is causing your symptoms
• antibiotics â if a bacterial infection is causing your symptoms and you’re very unwell or at risk of complications

You might need to take steroid nasal sprays or drops for a few months. They sometimes cause irritation, sore throats or nosebleeds.

A GP may refer you to an ear, nose and throat specialist if, for example, you:

• still have sinusitis after 3 months of treatment
• keep getting sinusitis
• only have symptoms on 1 side of your face

They may also recommend surgery in some cases.

Also Check: How To Treat Infected Tooth Pulp

When To See A Doctor About Dry Sinuses

Dry sinus symptoms can often be treated or mitigated with home and lifestyle changes, but its important to see a doctor when dryness becomes problematic or severe. If your sinus issues and dry airways dont improve with home and over the counter treatments, you should consult with an ear, nose and throat specialist. This is the best way to find out the underlying cause of your sinus issues.

If dry sinuses arent addressed properly, they often build up thick mucus and bacteria which can lead to a sinus infection . You should see a doctor if you have you experience symptoms of sinusitis such as:

• green nasal discharge
• tenderness or pain in the face
• headaches toward the front or sides of the head
• teeth or jaw pain
• fever
• fatigue

Not all sinus infections are able to be treated with antibiotics, but a doctor will be able to quickly determine whether your infection is viral or bacterial and then guide you on the right path for treatment. If chronic sinusitis continues to occur, doctors may recommend a balloon sinuplasty to increase airflow and reduce irritation long term.

It is also a good idea to see a doctor if you have an autoimmune condition like Sjögren syndrome, or if you are taking any prescription medications that can cause dryness. Sjögren syndrome is often treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs , corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants to relieve symptoms.

How Is Acute Sinusitis Diagnosed

Acute sinusitis is usually diagnosed by discussing all of your symptoms and medical history with your doctor. In a physical exam, your doctor will look at the ears, nose, and throat to check for any blockage, swelling, and drainage. If allergies are suspected, your doctor will can have an allergy test performed to determine what allergens might be the cause of your sinusitis.

Also Check: Difference Between Uti And Bladder Infection

Dry Sinus Remedies In Fall And Winter

by Alan S. Berger, M.D. | Oct 10, 2020 | Dry Sinuses

In our region of Pennsylvania, winter can either be a magical season of snow, gift-giving, and general good cheer, and it can also lead to an attack on the sinuses in the form of headaches, nosebleeds, and sore, dry noses.

The sinuses are hollow spaces within the bones of your skull, located around the cheekbones, forehead, between the eyes, and behind your nose. Healthy, happy sinuses are lined with a moist mucus membrane. Unhappy, dry sinuses are dehydrated, which makes them irritated and inflamed, leading to symptoms such as:

• Sinus headaches

What Can I Do

While you wait for your infection to run its course, you can take steps at home to feel better.

Look into nasal sprays. Store-bought saline nasal spray loosens up mucus, temporarily clearing it from your nasal passages. A steroid nasal spray like fluticasone may help tame inflammation, especially if you have underlying allergies. Unsure about using a steroid? Follow package directions and go to your HCP with questions.

Be wary of decongestant nasal sprays, like oxymetazoline . Using them for longer than three days could cause rebound symptoms persistent stuffiness eased only by the spray itself. Dryness and addiction are also possibilities.

Embrace sinus rinses like the neti pot. Many sinus infection veterans swear by nasal irrigation systems, such as plastic squeeze bottles or teakettle-shaped neti pots. These devices are filled with a sterile saline solution and used to flush snot from your sinuses.

Neti pots and their ilk are widely available and typically safe, as long as you handle them properly. Dont use water directly from your tap. Instead use distilled water, a sterile saline solution or water that has been boiled and then cooled.

Try over-the-counter medicines. Experts recommend analgesics including acetaminophen , ibuprofen and aspirin to ease pain, as well as decongestants like pseudoephedrine to alleviate the pressure of congestion.

Finally, you may want to avoid flying or scuba diving, since either can aggravate sinus pain.

Recommended Reading: How To Kill Mouth Infection