How to Get Rid of a Sinus Infection Without Antibiotics
A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, may be caused by a virus or a bacteria. Most of the time, according to Mayoclinic.com, antibiotics are not necessary to treat sinusitis because the infection usually clears up on its own.
A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, may be caused by a virus or a bacteria. Most of the time, according to Mayoclinic.com, antibiotics are not necessary to treat sinusitis because the infection usually clears up on its own. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns against using antibiotics unless absolutely necessary, because overuse can lead to antibiotic resistance. If you are suffering from the symptoms of a sinus infection, which include nasal congestion, a headache, drainage from the nose and a cough, try to treat your condition at home. If you develop a high fever, severe pain, confusion, a worsening of symptoms or swelling around your eyes, see your doctor promptly.
Step 1
Moisten your nasal passages to help relieve congestion, recommends Drugs.com. Run a humidifier in your bedroom, inhale the steam from a hot shower or use nasal saline drops.
Step 2
Apply a hot, wet washcloth to your forehead and cheeks. This may help loosen mucus in your sinuses and nose that cause uncomfortable pressure.
Step 3
Drink plenty of fluids to help thin nasal secretions. Try hot tea, water or fruit juices. If you have a sore throat from your sinus infection, try stirring some honey and lemon juice into the tea or warm water to reduce soreness.
Step 4
Take over-the-counter medications to relieve your symptoms as needed, suggests MayoClinic.com. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce your fever and reduce discomfort. Decongestants may temporarily ease your congestion.
warning
Do not give your child or teenager aspirin for a sinus infection. In rare cases, it can cause Reye's Syndrome, a potentially fatal condition.
Avoid using decongestants for more than a few days. MayoClinic.com states that they can cause even more stuffiness when they wear off in some cases.