Sinus Infection

Nearly 40 million Americans suffer from sinusitis each year. Often referred to as a sinus infection, sinusitis occurs when the hollow cavities in and around the nasal passages become inflamed. The inflammation, in turn, interferes with mucous drainage of the sinuses.
Most people with a sinus infection find they have trouble breathing through their nose. Fever, cough, and facial swelling are also common symptoms of an infection.

According to the Mayo Clinic, two percent of individuals who suffer from a cold contract a sinus infection. Treatment for sinus infection varies case-by-case.

Your doctor may or may not opt to prescribe you medication for your sinusitis. Treatment for sinus infection may include any of the following:

• Nasal saline solution administered several times a day
• Pain relievers
• Decongestants (prescribed or over-the-counter)
• Nasal corticosteroid spray
• Corticosteroid pills

In some situations, it may be necessary for your doctor to treat an underlying sickness such as an allergic condition that can lead to sinusitis. It you experience any of the following, it is important to contact a physician immediately:

• Stiff Neck
• Confusion
• Fever over 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit
• Swelling, pain or redness in the face or eye area
• Severe headache

he Mayo Clinic also recommends drinking plenty of liquids, applying warm compresses to the face, steaming the sinus cavities and avoiding alcohol while treating sinusitis. As always, if you have any questions about treatment for sinus infection, contact your physician.

Symptoms