Posted on March 8, 2010.
Care and treatment for a sinus infection Home care can help open the sinus and alleviate their dryness. Drink plenty of water and hydrating beverages like hot tea.
Inhale steam two to four times a day, leaning on a bowl of hot water (not while the water on the stove) or using a steam vaporizer. Inhale the steam for about 10 minutes. Taking a hot, wet shower may also work. mentholated preparations, such as Vicks Vapo-Rub, can be added to water or spray with the opening passages.
Expectorants are drugs that help to clear mucus from the lungs and airways. It does help thin mucous secretions, improving drainage of the sinuses. The most common is guaifenesin (contained in Robitussin and Mucinex, for example).
Over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicines cons of liquid or tablet prescription can also combine decongestants and cough suppressants to reduce symptoms and to eliminate the need for multiple drug use. Read the ingredient label to find the right combination of ingredients or ask the pharmacist for help.
cons pain medications such as ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin, for example), aspirin, and naproxen (Aleve) can reduce pain and inflammation. These drugs help open airways by reducing swelling. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used for pain and fever, but does not contribute to inflammation.
The main goals in treating a sinus infection or sinusitis involve reducing the swelling or inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, eliminating the infection, promoting sinus drainage, sinus and keep it open.
Blood cells and cells lining the mucosa in the sinuses can normally fight against foreign invaders. However, when overwhelmed by viruses and bacteria, coupled with a weakened immune system or more reactivity to allergens, the result is inflammation associated with sinusitis. With proper treatment, an infection of short duration can be treated effectively.
Because many foreign substances trigger reactions, many treatments are available that can treat the symptoms of inflammation.
Decongestants help reduce airway obstruction and are important in the initial treatment to relieve symptoms.
The nasal and oral decongestants are side effects, including general stimulation causing increased heart rate and blood pressure, insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, tremors, dry mouth, blurred vision and headaches. They can also cause an inability to urinate. Therefore, persons with histories of heart disease, anxiety, hypertension, or urinary problems (prostate disorders in particular) should consult a doctor before using decongestants.
In addition, the decongestant combination with other nonprescription drugs or prescribed with the same side effects can cause dangerous complications.