Many cases of
sinusitis will subside without the need for antibiotics.
Self-care techniques may speed along recovery.
If your doctor suspects you have
a bacterial infection, he or she may prescribe a course of antibiotics such as
amoxicillin , doxycycline or the combination drug trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
. If the infection doesn''t subside or if the
sinusitis is recurrent, a
different antibiotic may be warranted.Your doctor may also recommend other
treatment methods, depending on the underlying cause of the sinusitis. These
include: Treating an underlying allergic condition that contributes to
sinusitis, Using prescription
decongestants, nasal corticosteroid spray or oral
corticosteroid pills to relieve stuffiness, Taking over-the-counter
decongestants or pain relievers, Spraying a saline solution in your nose
several times a day, Take these steps to reduce your risk of sinusitis: Reduce
risk of upper respiratory infections. Minimize contact with people who
have colds. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before
your meals. Get a flu shot every year. Avoid cigarette smoke and
polluted air. Tobacco smoke and air contaminants can irritate and
inflame your lungs and nasal passages. Use a humidifier. If
the air in your home is dry, such as it is if you have forced hot air heat,
adding moisture to the air may help prevent sinusitis. Be sure the humidifier
is clean and free of mold. Limit alcohol use. Consumption of
alcohol can cause sinus passages to swell. If you do get sinusitis, these
self-help steps can help relieve symptoms: Steam your sinus cavities.
Drape a towel over your head as you breath in the steam from a bowl of hot
water. Keep the steam directed toward your face. Or take a hot shower,
breathing in the warm, moist air. Take decongestants. These
over-the-counter medications may help reduce congestion. Apply warm
compresses. Place warm, damp towels around your nose, cheeks and eyes
to ease facial pain. Drink plenty of fluids. Dilute mucous
secretions and promote drainage by consuming additional fluids. Avoid
alcohol. Consumption of alcohol can worsen the swelling of the lining
of the sinuses and nose.