A sinus infection occurs when your nasal cavities are inflamed, causing mucus blockages. While it might start as a common cold, a sinus infection might resist over-the-counter drugs and recur even after treatment. A sinus infection West Los Angeles can last up to twelve weeks, but if it is chronic, it might recur several times in a year.
Causes and symptoms of sinus infections
Causes of a sinus infection can include allergies, hay fever, dehydration, and certain over-the-counter medication. Dehydration can worsen your condition because your nasal cavities are dry making it difficult to remove mucus and bacteria from your nose and throat.
When you have a sinus infection, you can experience earaches and headaches due to pressure in your nasal cavities. Other symptoms include sore throat, congestion, facial swelling, weakness, and fatigue.
Avoid your allergens
If you know what your allergens are, it is best to avoid them to minimize your risk of sinus infections. Your allergies can come from pet dander, smoke, or foods like milk, but with proper identification, you can make a mental note to avoid areas that can expose you to such. Before visiting certain places, ensure they know you have certain allergies to avoid contact.
Maintain high standards of hygiene
When you have a congested nose, the last place you should stay in is a dirty environment. Ensure your surroundings are clean and you have fresh air. If your room is dusty or musty, your symptoms will worsen, increasing your inflammation. Always clean your hands regularly and use a clean handkerchief to blow your nose.
Drink plenty of fluids
You should always drink plenty of hydrating fluids, including water and soups. When your nasal cavities are well-hydrated, they ensure your mucus stays thin and small hairs in your sinus can push it out, reducing congestion. If you stay dehydrated, the congestion in your nose will worsen.
Moisten your nasal passages
Boosting the humidity in your room or taking a warm bath can moisten your nasal cavities providing relief from dry nostrils. You can also use nasal sprays, which can provide relief from a congested nose.
Rest
When you rest, you expend little energy, and that energy reservation helps your immunity system fight a sinus infection effectively. Elevate your head to stimulate a natural drain from your nasal cavities when you sleep. Rest and sleep as necessary to allow your body to fight the infection.
Diagnosis and treatment for sinus infections
Your specialist might perform a physical exam, including looking at your nose and face for sinus infection symptoms. They might ask for imaging scans to evaluate the extent of inflammation to make an accurate diagnosis. Treatment options include over-the-counter medications like antibiotics, nasal sprays, and rest. Your specialist can combine treatment with preventive tips like drinking plenty of water and avoiding allergens.
If you have persistent sinus infections, visit Catherine Fuller, MD, for treatment. Dr. Fuller and her team will evaluate your condition comprehensively and offer treatment depending on your condition’s severity. Call or schedule your appointment online to reduce pain in your nasal cavity.
