WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is sinusitis? Sinusitis is inflammation or infection of your sinuses. It is most often caused by a virus. Acute sinusitis may last up to 12 weeks. Chronic sinusitis lasts longer than 12 weeks. Recurrent sinusitis is when you have 3 or more episodes of sinusitis in 1 year. What increases my risk for sinusitis? - Medical conditions, such as an upper respiratory infection, allergies, asthma, or cystic fibrosis
- Dental infections or procedures, such as gum infections, tooth decay, tooth removal, root canal, or a tooth implant
- Abnormal sinus structure, such as nasal growths, swollen tonsils, or a deviated septum
- A weak immune system, from diseases such as diabetes or HIV
- Smoking
What are the signs and symptoms of sinusitis? - Fever
- Pain, pressure, redness, or swelling around the forehead, cheeks, or eyes
- Thick yellow or green discharge from your nose
- Tenderness when you touch your face over your sinuses
- Dry cough that happens mostly at night or when you lie down
- Headache and face pain that is worse when you lean forward
- Teeth pain or pain when you chew
How is sinusitis diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will examine you and ask about your symptoms. He will check inside your nose using a nasal speculum. This is a small tool used to open your nostrils. A sample of the mucus from your nose may show what germ is causing your infection. If you have chronic sinusitis, you may need imaging tests. How is sinusitis treated? Your symptoms may go away on their own. You may need any of the following: - Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions. Do not give these medicines to children under 6 months of age without direction from your child's healthcare provider.
- Nasal steroid sprays may help decrease inflammation in your nose and sinuses.
- Decongestants help reduce swelling and drain mucus in the nose and sinuses. They may help you breathe easier.
- Antihistamines help dry mucus in the nose and relieve sneezing.
How can I manage my symptoms? - Rinse your sinuses. Use a sinus rinse device to rinse your nasal passages with a saline (salt water) solution. This will help thin the mucus in your nose and rinse away pollen and dirt. It will also help reduce swelling so you can breathe normally. Ask your healthcare provider how often to do this.
- Breathe in steam. Heat a bowl of water until you see steam. Lean over the bowl and make a tent over your head with a large towel. Breathe deeply for about 20 minutes. Be careful not to get too close to the steam or burn yourself. Do this 3 times a day. You can also breathe deeply when you take a hot shower.
- Sleep with your head elevated. Place an extra pillow under your head before you go to sleep to help your sinuses drain.
- Drink liquids as directed. Ask your healthcare provider how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. Liquids will thin the mucus in your nose and help it drain. Avoid drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine.
- Do not smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can make your symptoms worse. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.
How can I help prevent the spread of germs that cause sinusitis? Wash your hands often with soap and water. Wash your hands after you use the bathroom, change a child's diaper, or sneeze. Wash your hands before you prepare or eat food. When should I seek immediate care? - Your eye and eyelid are red, swollen, and painful.
- You cannot open your eye.
- You have vision changes, such as double vision.
- Your eyeball bulges out or you cannot move your eye.
- You are more sleepy than normal, or you notice changes in your ability to think, move, or talk.
- You have a stiff neck, a fever, or a bad headache.
- You have swelling of your forehead or scalp.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - Your symptoms get worse after 5 to 7 days.
- Your symptoms do not go away after 10 days.
- You have nausea and vomiting.
- Your nose is bleeding.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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