Sinusitis

Sinusitis is inflammation of sinus cavities. It typically starts from uncontrolled allergies or a viral infection. The majority of them resolve on their own. A few will need to be treated with antibiotics. Follow these simple steps to clear your sinuses as soon as the symptoms start:

Steam inhalation: Boil a pot of water and inhale the steam with your nose and out with your mouth. Repeat it a few times.

Saline over the counter : Squirt into your nostrils to cleanse your sinuses.

(eg. Ocean Spray OR AYR OR Neti Pot)

Antihistamine like Claritin, Alvert, Zyrtec, and Allegra with a decongestant (Sudafed):  Avoid decongestants (Sudafed) if you have high blood pressure.

Steroid nasal sprays: Flonase, Nasacort, Rhinacort–they are all OTC

Lastly consider Acupuncture–it can help drain your sinuses and prevent an infection.

If you don’t get relief with the above measure make an appointment with your doctor.

If you suffer from allergies, talk with your doctor about controlling your symptoms aggressively so you don’t succumb to a sinus infection.

Some indications for the use of antibiotics are:

Persistent symptoms at the 10^th day mark.

Worsening symptoms after the 5^th or 6^th day.

A new fever anytime during the course of the illness.

Severe symptoms including high fevers, swelling around eyes, drowsiness, an ill appearing patient.

The color of your discharge does not tell you about the nature of you sinusitis

If you are unsure whether you are a candidate for antibiotics, check with your doctor.

USE ANTIBIOTICS JUDICIOUSLY!!!