Over The Counter Medications
For help alleviating sinus pressure and pain, try ibuprofen and a decongestant. Some medications include a combination of pain reliever and decongestant.
Mild antihistamines like Claritin and Allegra are helpful in moderation. Strong antihistamines like Benadryl are often way too drying. Be careful not to take antihistamines too often.
Even though you want your nose to stop running, too many antihistamines can make it more likely that youll get sinus infections in the future.
Drugs like Mucinex and Flonase can also be helpful in thinning the mucus in your nose and sinuses.
If you use Afrin, make sure you stop after three days. Though it can seem like a miracle drug, using it more than three days in a row can lead to something called rebound congestion. In other words, when you stop using the Afrin after continuous use, your nose becomes more congested than it was in the first place!
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Herbal Tea Made From Black Pepper Leaves
Black pepper belongs to the family of Piperaceae. It is widely used for cooking and for making natural medicines. Native to Kerala , the use of black pepper dates back to ancient times. In fact, it was greatly traded in those days. It is available throughout the year and has multiple benefits. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial properties and is a great source of vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, iron, dietary fibers, and manganese. Black pepper is well admired in treating diarrhea, heart disorders, anemia, pyorrhea, indigestion, jaundice, muscular strains, impotence, cough, cold, constipation, respiratory problems, and so on. This is one of the most popular home remedies for sinus infection in Asian countries. To try this remedy, follow the steps given below:
- Step 1: Take few fresh leaves of the black pepper plant and wash them thoroughly.
- Step 2: Boil them in water for few minutes.
- Step 3: Allow the concoction to cool down.
- Step 4: Strain and drink it for a week.
How Does This Work?
The reason black pepper leaves are highly helpful in the treatment of sinusitis is their active oxygenated compounds. Also, they have a lot of alkaloids while the main being piperine, which acts as a depressant on the central nervous system and has pain-relieving, anti-fever, insecticidal, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Black Pepper Is Not Good, If:
H2o: A Natural Alternative To Sinus Infection Antibiotics
One of the most powerful solvents on earth is nothing more than pure water. Water is used in many applications as a thinner, cleaner, and diluter. When it comes to a sinus infection, water can be used in much the same way to thin mucus, clean the sinuses, and dilute a blockage, which is one of the major sinus infection vs cold benefits. Getting rid of your sinus infection may involve the use of liquid, mist, or vaporized water.
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Signs Of A Sinus Infection
Health Check Certified By: Dr. Gerald Morris
We all know the feeling. Youre run down, stuffed up, feverish, and maybe a little chilly with a sore throat and an annoying post nasal drip. Dont shrug it off as the common cold. You may very well have a sinus infection, or sinusitis. A sinus infection can be tricky to identify, but there are some signs to watch out for. Identifying what is happening with your body when you are ill is the first step to getting better.
You might think its just a cold, but before you run to the pharmacy for over-the-counter cold medication, check for these 20 signs of a sinus infection
What Causes A Sinus Infection
Before you can begin finding relief from the symptoms of a sinus infection, its important to understand whats causing it.
One of the most common causes of sinusitis is a virtual infection, such as the common cold or influenza. As a result, most people have experienced at least a mild sinus infection at some point.
Its not common for a viral infection to develop into a secondary bacterial infection but it does happen occasionally. And, in some cases, fungal infections may be the source of the sinusitis symptoms.
People who suffer from allergies , nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or dental infections are also more likely to experience a sinus infection. In many cases, these sufferers will develop chronic sinusitis, requiring treatment management strategies.
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Apple Cider Vinegar Manuka Honey H2o2
2 User Reviews
I went through 3 operations for severe nasal polyps that were so bad, I started developing rings under my eyes. Very hard to focus and concentrate and feeling very tired like I had a bowling ball in my head! After a year or 2 they kept coming back and you have to imagine your worst congestion 100 X magnified.
I had my last operation 3 years ago and about this past early February it started coming back with a vengeance. I started taking 1 teaspoon of apple cider mixed in a hot glass of water. On top of that I bought New Zealand Manuka honey Cup of hot water with a heaping teaspoon of this and a teaspoon of organic cinnamon. Once in the morning and once at night.
Finally took Hydrogen peroxide 3% dipped in a q tip till very saturated and for 1 minute on each side of the nose, slowly worked it through each nasal passage all the way back. I’m a new person and my sense of smell is returning. Feel like I did right after my operation. I do this consistently every day. It works! Good health to everyone! Len
Baby Shampoo
I got a nasty sinus infection during the first week of January 2008. I went to my doctor a couple of weeks later and over the next few months I was given a variety of antibiotics, nasal sprays, singular, Claritin and a neti pot. I tried the silver spray and even used grape seed oil, oil pulling and apple cider vinegar but nothing worked until last week when my doctor gave me this simple advice.
Sinus Infection: Signs & Symptoms + 10 Natural Remedies
About 35 million Americans suffer from a sinus infection or sinusitis every year. Sinusitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of the tissue lining the sinuses that leads to an infection. It can result in mucus build-up and pain. If youve ever experienced a sinus infection, then you know just how unpleasant it can be much worse than a stuffy nose. While in most cases, a sinus infection will simply leave you running to find a decongestant, in the worst cases, it can lead to surgery to remove an abscess that has developed or the obstruction of the sinuses.
In the United States, sinusitis is the fifth most common medical diagnosis for which antibiotics are prescribed these days. The management of acute and chronic sinusitis is also costing this country over $11 billion every year. That doesnt even include the economic impact of lost work time due to illness.
While antibioticsfor sinus infection are a very common conventional treatment, the majority of sinus infections are actually the result of colds or viruses. They will get better as your nasal congestion improves.
Thankfully, there are a lot of natural ways to treat a sinus infection, including the foods you eat , saline nasal sprays, essential oils and supplements scientifically proven to be an effective sinus infection home remedy.
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What Can I Do To Feel Better
If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics or any other medicines, be sure to follow the directions. Otherwise, sinusitis can last a long time or happen again. Even if you feel better, keep taking the antibiotics until you have finished them as prescribed. This helps to kill all the bacteria causing the infection.
Also be sure to get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids so that your immune system can work along with the antibiotics to fight and cure the infection.
If you have sinusitis, chances are the type you have is not severe. But itâs important to see a doctor, especially if your symptoms last or get worse. If you have a bacterial infection, quick treatment can help prevent it from getting worse or spreading. It also will help you get and feel better faster.
Seasonal Flu Or Influenza
The season of flu occurs during the cold half of the year for each hemisphere. This means June to December for the regions of the northern hemisphere and January to June for the countries in the southern hemisphere. Influenza is basically a respiratory infection caused by the Influenza A, B, or C virus. This extremely contagious disease usually spreads through infected droplets suspended in the air which contain the said pathogens.
There is no one particular reason that relates this disease becoming an epidemic to the onset of winter months. As a ,matter of fact,scientists have claimed several reasons why influenza becomes highly pandemic in the cold half of the year. Some of these are-
- People spend most time indoors which increases the concentration of pathogens in the air.
- The amount of UV rays incident on earth during these months decreases which might cause the pathogens to thrive.
- Cold air tends to dehydrate the nasal passage and in the absence of mucus, we become more susceptible to infections.
- Viruses thrive in cold temperatures since the rate of decomposition is low in winters.
Where it gets serious
The biggest mistake people commit is that they shrug off a case of influenza as an incidence of common cold.Influenza is a more serious condition and has resulted in several million fatalities in the past few decades. During the time period 1918-1919, a deathly epidemic of this infection worldwide, The Spanish Flu claimed lives of more than 40 million individuals.
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What Causes Sinus Pressure
Pressure in your sinuses is essentially swelling in response to any of three different causes: A pressure change between the air inside your sinuses and the air outside your sinuses when irritants invade your sinuses or when you have an anatomical issue .
Unfortunately, you can’t cater your sinus pressure treatment to the exact cause. Still, the good news is that most available remedies can work to reduce sinus inflammation and swelling regardless of what’s causing it.
Here’s a guide, according to experts, on the best ways to treat sinus pressure so you can start feeling better as soon as possible.
What Is The Fastest Way To Get Rid Of A Sinus Infection
When you notice the first signs of facial pressure and sinus pain, youre probably desperate for a way to stop the infection before it is debilitating. Instead of burying your head under a pillow and waiting for it to clear up, its important that you are proactive with your treatment plan. Even a small sinus infection can develop severe symptoms when left untreated.
Whether its your first sinus infection or you have chronic sinusitis, its essential to know your treatment options. Clearing up the infection should be a high priority so you can avoid potential complications of untreated infections.
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Complications Of Sinus Infections
While sinus infections are common and not severe, they can sometimes lead to complications if left untreated. One potential complication of a sinus infection is the development of a secondary bacterial infection. This can occur if the initial condition is not fully resolved, and bacteria can thrive and multiply in the sinuses. This can lead to more severe symptoms and a longer recovery time. Chronic sinusitis is another potential complication of a sinus infection. This is when inflammation in the sinuses persists for more than 12 weeks and can lead to ongoing symptoms like nasal congestion, pressure, and fatigue. This condition can lead to more severe symptoms and a longer recovery time. Its essential to seek medical treatment if your sinus infection is severe or persistent or if you have underlying health conditions that could be affected by the disease. With the proper treatment, you can help ensure a full and speedy recovery from your sinus infection.
How To Get Rid Of A Sinus Infection In 24 Hours
Sinus infections are responsible for 16 million doctor visits and $150 million spent on prescription medications. People who have allergies, asthma, structural blockages in the nose or sinuses, or people with weak immune systems are at greater risk. In this video we share our top tips to cure a sinus infection.
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Frisco Ent Collin County Ear Nose & Throat
If you live near the Collin County or Dallas area, then youre invited to talk to one of our experienced ENTs at Collin County Ear, Nose, and Throat. We offer convenient offices in Frisco and Plano, TX. Request an appointment online, or call our office at 596-4005.
You can feel it in the air: the weather is starting to warm up, and
We find our patients experiences the most rewarding part of the job. Without them, we wouldnt be one of the longest standing ENT practices in the area!
We consulted Dr Tseng based on our pediatrician’s recommendation. He’s so great a doctor who took time to explain us everything and genuinely guided us in the right direction. He’s such a caring, genuine and knowledgeable doctor. Oh how I wish there were more like him!
Hetal U.
I have used Collin Co. ENT and Dr. Kenny Carter for over 3 years, primarily for ear problems. The staff has been consistently helpful and friendly to me. When I have had problems needing immediate attention and explained the need, have been able to get an appointment within a reasonable time to address the problem. I recommend Dr. Carter and his staff.
Stan B.
Dr. Matheny performed 2 surgeries on my wife, both were successful with great results. He is not only a great surgeon, but a great person. It was a pleasure working with him. One of the best doctors we have ever seen in our lives.
Mehrdad M.
Two Types Of Sinus Infections
Determining how long your sinus infection will last is dependent on what type you are experiencing. Acute sinusitis lasts for less than four weeks. Chronic sinusitis can last for more than 12 weeks.
The majority of sinus infection sufferers will see their symptoms start to resolve after about 10 days. While one to two infections a year is considering normal, more than four requires medical attention.
If you are experiencing chronic sinusitis with a single infection lasting three months at a time, there may be other factors to consider. Environmental factors such as smoking or allergies are common causes of developing chronic sinusitis.
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Diagnosis Of A Sinus Infection
Only a licensed healthcare professional can diagnose a sinus infection, so make sure you review your symptoms with one. A healthcare professional may diagnose your sinus infection using these methods:
- Performing a physical exam
- Running an imaging test like a CT scan or an MRI
- In severe cases, ordering a rhinoscopy or nasal endoscopy, a procedure that involves inserting a flexible instrument up the nostrils to look for blockages
Another part of diagnosing a sinus infection is identifying triggers like allergic rhinitis or frequent stuffy or runny noses related to allergies.
Treating Sinus Infections Using Natural Remedies
Natural home remedies are a safe and effective solution in the prevention and treatment of sinusitis. These simple and inexpensive solutions offer an alternative to the expense and side effects that often accompany over-the-counter medications. For some sinus sufferers, home remedies may fall short in providing long-term results. For those who suffer frequent or extended sinus infections, it is important to see a medical professional. If left untreated, these sinus infections may impact overall health and could lead to further medical complications in addition to the daily symptoms of sinusitis.
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How Is Sinus Infection Diagnosed
Diagnosis depends on symptoms and requires an examination of the throat, nose and sinuses. Your allergist will look for:
- Discolored nasal discharge
If your sinus infection lasts longer than eight weeks, or if standard antibiotic treatment is not working, a sinus CT scan may help your allergist diagnose the problem. Your allergist may examine your nose or sinus openings. The exam uses a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera and a light at one end that is inserted through the nose. It is not painful. Your allergist may give you a light anesthetic nasal spray to make you more comfortable.
Mucus cultures: If your sinus infection is chronic or has not improved after several rounds of antibiotics, a mucus culture may help to determine what is causing the infection. Most mucus samples are taken from the nose. However, it is sometimes necessary to get mucus directly from the sinuses.
Knowing what kind of bacteria is causing the infection can lead to more effective antibiotic therapy. A fungus could also cause your sinus infection. Confirming the presence of fungus is important. Fungal sinus infection needs to be treated with antifungal agents, rather than antibiotics. In addition, some forms of fungal sinus infection allergic fungal sinus infection, for example do not respond to antifungal agents and often require the use of oral steroids.
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Yoga Can Help Drain Mucus From Sinus Passageways
If you are in the midst of a sinus infection, a supported yoga pose where your head is elevated will help you feel better without putting too much pressure on your sinuses, says Leslie Kazadi, a certified yoga therapist who teaches around Los Angeles and online at YogisAnonymous.com.
One pose Kazadi suggests is Supported Reclined Cobblers Pose.
How to Try Supported Reclined Cobblers Yoga Pose
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