The Top 5 Treatment Options for Chronic Sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis is a condition in which the patient suffers from reoccurring sinus infections, with symptoms lasting for more than three months. Symptoms of chronic sinusitis include postnasal drip, tenderness of the face, pain in your teeth, coughing, fever, fatigue and bad breath. This article will describe the top five treatments for chronic (reoccurring) sinusitis, but does not constitute or replace medical advice. Please see your doctor if chronic sinusitis is a concern for you.

One. Antibiotics. Amoxicillin is the most commonly prescribed antibiotic for chronic sinusitis. It has a high success rate in treating chronic sinusitis and has few side effects. Other commonly prescribed antibiotics include Clarthromycin, Doxycyline, Trimethoprim, and Ceftin. The antibiotic your physician prescribes will depend on many factors, so be sure to provide a complete history of your sinusitis, as well as a list of all medications you are currently taking (including herbal and over the counter drugs.)

Two. Steroids. Inhaled steroids reduce the inflammation in your nasal passages brought on by chronic sinusitis. They can help reduce mucous production as well. Glucocorticoseroids are the type of steroids used to treat chronic sinusitis, and should not be confused with anabolic steroids, which are sometimes used by athletes to build muscle mass or increase stamina. Side effects include nasal irritation or hoarseness.

Three. Flushing with Saline. Saline sprays keep your nasal passages moist and flush infectious agents (bacteria and viruses) and allergens out. Simply Saline is a good brand to try. These sprays help shrink the sinus membranes and increase drainage as well. Avoid sprays with decongestants unless prescribed by your doctor. You can also make your own saline flush by adding a half teaspoon of salt to 8 ounces of warm water (experiment with this to see how much salt you can tolerate in your nasal passages.) Most drugs stores sell nasal "bowls" which you can put this solution in and use to flush your nasal passages.

Four. Antihistamines. Antihistamines reduce sneezing, congestion, and a runny nose. Side effects can include drowsiness and dryness of the nose and throat. These will not cure your sinusitis, but can provide treatment and relief for your symptoms. They are available both over the counter and by prescription.

Five. Nasal Decongestants. Decongestants like Sudafed can reduce the swelling in your nose, which will help increase your drainage. They work by reducing the blood flow to your nasal passages, thereby also reducing sinus pressure and congestion. Side effects can include raised blood pressure, so please discuss their use with your health care provider. Like antihistamines, these will not cure your sinusitis, but will offer you relief.

If you suffer from chronic sinusitis, take good care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, take vitamins, eat as well as you can and speak with your doctor.

Source List

http://www.webmd.com/news/20070319/antibiotics-overused-sinusitis?page=2

http://www.acaai.org/public/advice/sinus.htm

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/sinus_infection/page11_em.htm

http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/sinusHeadaches.cfm

http://www.sinusinfocenter.com/treatment_steroids.html

http://www.sinusinfocenter.com/treatment_antihistamine.html

http://www.sinusinfocenter.com/treatment_decongestant.html

http://www.sinusinfocenter.com/sinus_medication_otc.html