Also referred to as sinusitis, sinus infections are caused by virus, bacteria, fungus, environmental pollutants, and by smoking. They are not generally contagious and usually clear up on their own after a couple of weeks. Antibiotics are only used to treat sinus infections that have been caused by bacteria and fungi, so doctors will not typically prescribe medication of this type until tests show that a bacteria or fungi are present.
There are a few remedies you can try if your sinuses are blocked. Blockage occurs when the membrane in the sinuses becomes inflamed and can result in a variety of symptoms such as headache, facial swelling or tenderness, pressure in the cheekbones and pain in the ears, teeth, and gums. Nasal and post nasal fluids may be discolored and you may have a cough, a sore throat, and a stuffy nose if an infection is present.
Initial relief for sinusitis can be found using analgesics such as Tylenol and applying a hot towel to your face. You can purchase saline solution, or decongestant sprays over the counter from the pharmacist and help to keep the nasal passages moist, as well as helping to dispel any mucous trapped in the sinuses.
If the symptoms persist for more than a week, or indeed worsen, antibiotics may be required, so the services of an ENT doctor will be required.
In most cases sinusitis clears up on its own accord but occasionally the symptoms become chronic, in that they last a long time. Further tests to establish cause will determine the best treatment in the long term, which may include sinuplasty or other procedures.
To determine the best course of action for you, contact Palm Beach Sinus Doctors today for a comprehensive exam from sinus experts in your area.