Frequent sinus infections can lead to difficulty breathing and severe pain. Without proper treatment, the sinus issues that you have could become worse. Fortunately, there are a few options that you have so that you can get true sinus relief.
Visiting an ENT specialist is one of the first steps in seeking the treatment that you need. Your doctor will talk to you about the symptoms that you’re experiencing in order to determine if you have an infection or if there’s a chronic issue that needs to be treated. Just because you have drainage from your sinuses doesn’t always mean that it’s an infection. A cold can cause the same type of drainage. Some of the signs of a sinus infection include pressure, fever, pain in your teeth, pressure in your ears, and headaches. A sinus infection caused by bacteria can last as long as 10 days, longer if it’s not treated properly. Once your doctor has determined that you have an infection, an antibiotic can be given along with pain medication if needed.
There are a few medications that you can get over the counter in order to get some kind of sinus relief, but until you treat the underlying issue, then this treatment likely won’t provide long-lasting benefits. A spray can relieve the pain that you have in your throat so that it’s easier to swallow, but it won’t treat the issue with your sinuses. Allergy medication is sometimes the best option for sinus relief if you want to try an over-the-counter medication.
A sinus rinse is an option that you have that can clear the sinuses. It can quickly get rid of any drainage, allowing you to breathe a bit easier. Once the mucus is removed from your sinuses, the natural membranes and defenses in your sinus cavity can begin working again as they should to keep your sinuses clear. This type of treatment can usually be used once a day. However, if you have a severe infection, then you might want to start by using the rinse three to four times a day until you notice relief.
If frequent sinus infections aren’t cleared with antibiotics and you find that they are interfering with your health in other ways, then surgery could be an option. Your doctor can perform tests to determine the extent of the sinus problems that you have before determining the best type of surgery to give relief. Most of the time, surgery that clears and opens the passages is enough to provide relief.
To find out about your options for true sinus relief, consider visiting Advanced Ear, Nose & Throat Associates in Atlanta, GA. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!