How to Treat Sinus Problems

Sinus problems--sinusitis--are all too common for many people. At first you feel congested, then begin sneezing. Eventually, your nose "opens up" and becomes runny. Next is that bothersome pain over your eyes and behind your cheekbones. It's important to recognize these signs early so you can avoid a day of sick leave and a sinus infection. If you become practiced enough at catching your symptoms early, you can avoid those wasted days feeling like a limp dishrag. You will learn to log your symptoms, what triggers them and how to treat your symptoms early.

Things You'll Need

• Sterile saline spray
• Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Allergy medication over the counter or prescription
• Symptom diary

Instructions

1. When you feel that familiar stuffiness/runny nose/sneezing cycle begin, write down everything you may have come into contact with, such as animal dander, dust and pollen, as well as your immediate symptoms.

2. Start with the least invasive treatment first. Use the sterile saline spray, which you can buy over the counter at any drugstore or discount store. Spray into both nostrils according to the package directions. Gently blow your nose to get rid of any accumulated mucus. Spray saline solution again to keep your nasal passages moist. Breathe in warm steam from a boiling pan of water. Be careful so you do not burn yourself. Create a hood with a bath towel draped over and around your head so you can inhale more of the steam. If your symptoms continue, take an over the counter decongestant, again as per package instructions. Do not drive if this medication makes you sleepy. If you can, elevate the head of your bed a few inches. This will help with drainage and avoid too much accumulation of mucus, which will create a good climate for a sinus infection. If your sinuses start to hurt, take acetaminophen or ibuprofen according to the bottle directions.

3. If, despite all of your efforts, you develop a sinus infection, continue to use the over the counter medications, call your doctor and go in for a definitive diagnosis. He can give you a diagnosis as well as a prescription. He will be able to develop a better treatment plan for you, too. Immediately fill any prescriptions you are given and plan to take it easy at home for the next couple of days until you are over the worst of your symptoms. Your body will loudly demand sleep so listen to it. Sinus infections sap the energy out of the most lively people, so you will gladly spend the next day or two sleeping.

4. If your doctor tells you to take an antibiotic--if your sinus infection appears to be bacterial--do not stop taking your medication early even if you start to feel better. By doing so, you allow the bacteria to grow resistant to the antibiotics. Take your medication for the full course--10 days for a traditional medication or 5 days for one of the newer, stronger medications. When you take your medication, take it with a full glass of water. Drinking more water while you are ill will help you feel better. Use any other medications as ordered.

5. It might be a good idea to temporarily stop drinking dairy products and stick to clear fluids while you have your sinus infection. Whatever you decide to drink, such as water, tea or soda will help keep you hydrated. Continue to eat so you can bring your energy level back up and get better. While you are sick, give yourself the gift of a couple of days away from work or school. You can unwind from the stress, which will help you to recover more efficiently.

Tips & Warnings

• Keeping a symptom diary will help in your discussion with your doctor. Try to make notes of what happens when your sinus issues are aggravated--causes, symptoms, what helps and what does not help. Include questions for your doctor.

• If you can, try to stay away from your sinus triggers. If not, try to reduce your exposure to those triggers.

• Do not take your medications more often if you do not feel better. You will run the very real risk of an overdose. It takes at least 2 days before you begin to feel better,

• If you notice unusual symptoms when you are taking a prescription or over the counter medication, notify your doctor right away, especially if those symptoms include difficulty breathing or severe gastrointestinal symptoms. If necessary, go to your local emergency department immediately.