Sinus Infections Treatment Doctor Q&A

Common symptoms of sinus infections include:

– Runny nose
– Stuffy nose
– Facial pain or pressure
– Headache
– Post-nasal drip (mucous dripping down the back of the throat)
– Sore throat
– Cough
– Bad breath

– Antibiotics — A standard treatment for bacterial sinus infections, antibiotics are usually taken from 3 to 28 days, depending on the type. Longer treatments may be prescribed for people with longer lasting or severe cases because the sinuses are deep-seated in the bones, and blood supply is limited. Antibiotics target the bacteria causing the infection and destroy them, removing them from the body. They do not do much to allay symptoms until the drugs take effect. Some over-the-counter medications can help provide relief.

– Nasal decongestant sprays — Facilitating the flow of drainage from the sinuses, these medications shrink swollen nasal passages. Overuse of topical nasal decongestants can result in rebound phenomenon, a dependent condition in which the nasal passages swell shut.

– Antihistamines — So they can help to fight symptoms of allergies that can lead to swollen nasal and sinus passages, antihistamines block inflammation caused by an allergic reaction.

– Topical nasal corticosteroids — Addressing the biggest problem associated with sinus infection, these prescription nasal sprays prevent and reverse inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages and sinus openings. This treatment is also effective in shrinking nasal polyps and preventing their return.

– Nasal saline washes — Nasal rinses can help clear thick mucous secretions from the nasal passages.

The two main types of sinus infections are acute and chronic. In acute cases, symptoms typically last around two to four weeks, although cases are usually resolved in ten days. In cases of chronic sinus infections, symptoms can last for months and come on in recurrent episodes. Chronic sinusitis may be caused by allergies or environmental factors, such as exposure to smoke. It is considered normal to contract two sinus infections a year. However, any more than two sinus infections a year and a visit to an ears, nose and throat specialist is warranted. If left untreated, sinus infections can spread to other parts of the body. In the most severe case, the infection can spread to the blood, which causes a life-threatening condition known as sepsis.

Common symptoms of sinus infections include:

– Pain in your sinuses
– Nasal discharge (rhinorrhea or post-nasal drip)
– Nasal congestion
– Sinus headaches
– Throat irritation and cough
– Sore throat and hoarse voice

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a sinus infection, come to Nova Patient Care for treatment today. Our kind and compassionate professionals are experienced in treating sinus infections and can help you alleviate symptoms and get on the road to recovery. For more information on our sinus infection treatments, call our office and get in touch with a member of our specialist team. To book an appointment with our sinus infection specialist, visit our website or speak with us over the phone today. We serve patients from Woodbridge VA, Bethel VA, Dale City VA, Old Town Alexandria VA, Huntington VA, Fort Hunt VA, Arlington VA, Mclean VA, Idylwood VA, Kingstowne Center Alexandria VA, Franconia VA, Newington VA, Falls Church VA, Annandale VA, Tysons VA, Richmond Hwy Alexandria VA, Pentagon City Arlington VA, Seven Corners VA, Lake Barcroft, VA and surrounding areas.