Sinusitis Treatments: Sinusitis can be treated with either medications or home treatment remedies. The objectives of treatment are to: promote drainage, thin mucus, reduce swelling, relieve pain and pressure, clear up any infection and prevent permanent damage to the tissue lining the nose and sinuses.
Drinking water, teas, fruit juices and other beverages keeps the body hydrated and supports the cleansing of the nasal passages. Breathing in steam or hot water vapor (while taking a shower or sitting over a bowl of hot water) several times a day also helps to alleviate symptoms. Menthol and various menthol preparations can also be added to humidifiers and other hot water sources to further loosen mucus and contribute to an overall better breathing experience.
There are several methods of nasal irrigation that can be used to thin the mucus. Neti-pots (small, ceramic pots that look like Arabian lamps) and nasal sprays both provide the flush needed to clear sinus passageways. Medications that assist in bringing mucus and other material up from the lungs, bronchi, and trachea are also used. Mucolytic and cough reducing drugs may also assist in easing sinusitis blockage.
Acetaminophen is thought to relieve irritation in the sinuses, however it merely helps reduce pressure and pain. Aspirin and NSAIDs both help take away pain and do help reduce inflammation. Warm compresses can also be used against the eyes and nose to help relieve discomfort.
Babies and young kids need to see a doctor. Any medicine, over the counter or not, may have side effects in children that are not seen in adults. Buying creams that use rosemary, lavender and eucalyptus can be rubbed on the child’s chest to help relieve pressure and mucous. Eucalyptus oil in a hot bath combined with steam can help kids breath better.
If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed. These medications can vary in length of treatment with some being as short as three days and others lasting as long as several weeks or more. In addition decongestants (which reduce swelling of nasal mucous membranes), analgesics (pain relievers), mucolytics (which thin mucus), corticosteroids (which reduce inflammation) or inhaled antibiotics may also be given. These medications will not work if a virus or fungus causes the infection.
Sinusitis may clear on its own, without the use of any drugs or prescriptions. However, if symptoms do not clear after several days or weeks, it is important to visit a doctor. Home therapies may be used at any time during the inflammation, but should not be used in conjunction with other medications or prescriptions unless approved by a doctor. In the most extreme cases, surgery might be needed to correct a deviated septum or to help open nasal passageways.
For relief of recurring sinusitis, visit a doctor or consult a homeopath who may be able to help.
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