How to Quickly Relieve a Sinus Infection
To treat a sinus infection as fast as possible, one has to work on reducing the symptoms as well as the causes. Here are some effective methods to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing:Here are some effective methods to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing:
- Stay Hydrated
To relieve sinusitis one should increase fluid intake in the form of water, herbal teas, and clear broths to thin the mucus and facilitate its drainage. It is very important in order to avoid dehydration and to support the body’s ability to recover on its own.
- Use a Humidifier
A humidifier releases moisture into the air which has an effect of easing irritation of the nasal passages and relieving congestion. Make sure that the humidifier is clean to avoid spreading of molds or bacteria which are likely to worsen the symptoms.
- Apply Warm Compresses
To this end, you can use heat on your face, especially the sinus areas such as the forehead, cheekbones and nose; this is helpful in reducing the pain due to sinus pressure. It is for this reason that hot steam is used to help break down mucus and thus help in the drainage of the sinuses.
- Saline Solution
Among the ways of eliminating mucus and allergens from the nasal passage is through the use of a saline solution to rinse the nostrils. Some of the techniques that can be used include use of a neti pot, a squeeze bottle or a saline nasal spray. Ensure to use only sterile or distilled water and ensure that you follow the instructions so as to not have an adverse reaction.
- Take Over-the-Counter Medications
- Several over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help relieve sinus infection symptoms:Several over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help relieve sinus infection symptoms:
- Decongestants: These medications shrinks the blood vessels in the nasal passages and thus decreases congestion and swelling of the nasal tissues. The side effects of the drug are not known and it can be taken in the form of oral tablets or nasal sprays. But, nasal decongestant sprays should not be used for more than three days in a row in order to prevent the worsening of congestion.
- Pain Relievers: Over the counter drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help reduce the swelling and the headaches that come with sinusitis. Ask your Best ENT Specialist in Lahore for advice regarding medication to use.
- Expectorants: These are helpful in unfastening the mucus that has collected at the back of the throat and can easily be coughed out.
- Lay down and Prop Up Your Head
It is good to rest since the body has the ability to fight off infection and heal faster. When in bed ensure that you use an extra pillow to support your head to enhance nasal drain and minimize congestion.
- Use Essential Oils
Some of the essential oils that can help with sinus congestion include eucalyptus, peppermint oil among others. To benefit from the oil, one has to add a few drops to hot water and inhale the steam or use a diffuser to spread the aroma around the room.
- Avoid Irritants
It is also advisable to minimize substances that may trigger more inflammation of the sinuses including smoke fumes, strong fragrances, and pollution. By maintaining cleanliness in your environment and ensuring there is no presence of allergens then you can be able to minimize the symptoms.
- Consider Prescription Medications
If your sinus infection is from bacteria or if your symptoms do not subside with the use of over the counter medications, your doctor may recommend you to use antibiotics or any other drug/medicine. The following are some of the measures that people should take according to the recommendations of the health experts;
- Seek Medical Attention
If the symptoms are not subsiding within 10 days or if the symptoms are getting worse or if they are associated with high fever, severe pain or swelling then one should consult a doctor. Such infections that are constant or very severe may need other forms of treatment.
These are some of the ways through which one can be able to handle and control the symptoms of sinus infection in order to speed up the healing process. It is always important to seek advice from an ENT Specialist in Karachi in order to get the right information that applies to your case.