How to Treat Recurrent Sinus Infections

Chronic Infections Can be Difficult to Endure.

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Jul 13, 2009 Kristie Jernigan

Sinus Infections have many causes and also many treatments. A person that suffers from chronic sinus infections should be aware of their triggers.

Sinus infections can be a troubling problem for some people. These infections can be brought on by allergies, colds or congestion that is unrelieved. Fortunately, there are many different ways to help prevent a chronic sinus infection. Medicated nasal sprays and antibiotics can be very helpful. However, nasal irrigation with a saline solution is also extremely helpful. Many people find that keeping their nasal passages cleaned out does a great deal of good with preventing this problem.

Understanding Sinus Infections

To understand how to treat sinus infections you need to understand how they come about. The Mayo Clinic reports that chronic sinus infections are caused when the nasal membranes and tissues get irritated and swollen and trap excess mucous. This mucous can become old, dry and stagnate and this can cause a sinus infection to begin. Nasal infections can be caused by bacteria, fungus or a virus and, depending on the cause, the treatment will vary. Sinus infections can cause pain and pressure that is hard to relieve. The sufferer should remember that keeping hydrated and drinking plenty of water is very important and can help with relieving some of the congestion.

Nasal Irrigation

When a sinus infection occurs it can be a big help to the sufferer to use nasal irrigation to clean out the nose. Nasal irrigation is done by using a saline wash made of: 1 teaspoon kosher salt and a cup of warm water. The wash is then sprayed up into the nose with a bulb syringe. The person can repeat the process if needed. Once done the nose should be blown in order to help finish cleaning out the mucous and infection.

Antibiotics

Many antibiotics can be used to treat sinus infections. Amoxicillian, Doxycycline and Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole are all common medications that are used by physicians.

For fungal infections a special nasal spray may be prescribed. However, if your condition and infection is extremely severe a physician may prescribe some stronger IV medications to provide treatment.

Preventing a Sinus Infection

If you are a person who has frequent sinus infections then you may want to try and determine what your trigger is. Some people are especially susceptible to allergies which can lead to nasal congestion. This congestion can then lead to a sinus infection. Keeping the nasal passage cleaned out with a saline irrigation can be very helpful in preventing this problem. Also, staying away from things that may cause allergies such as animal dander, pollen or others should be done if at all possible.

The Mayo Clinic; Chronic Nasal Infection; 2009

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The copyright of the article How to Treat Recurrent Sinus Infections in Allergies is owned by Kristie Jernigan. Permission to republish How to Treat Recurrent Sinus Infections in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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