Your treatment will depend on the diagnosis.

Acute sinus infections may require antibiotics, decongestant pills, mucous thinner medications (such as over the counter guafenesin), or nasal sprays (steroid sprays) to reduce inflammation. Antihistamines are usually avoided as they tend to dry up and thicken the mucous, making it harder for the secretions to be cleared out of the sinuses. Avoiding infections is one of the best approaches.

Some tips on avoiding sinus infections include:

• Minimize your exposure to colds and other infections through consistent hand washing and avoiding sharing items that can spread the virus, such as wash cloths, towels, or utensils.
• If you have allergies, try to keep them under control with allergy shots or by avoiding known allergens.
• Stay healthy by eating right and exercising. Drink plenty of water.
• When you do have a cold, run a humidifier to keep plenty of moisture in your sinuses to help them drain.
• Try to avoid air pollutants such as tobacco smoke.