Sinusitis

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is soreness and swelling (inflammation) of your sinuses. Sinuses are hollow spaces in the bones around your face. They are located:

  • Around your eyes.
  • In the middle of your forehead.
  • Behind your nose.
  • In your cheekbones.

Your sinuses and nasal passages are lined with a stringy fluid (mucus). Mucus normally drains out of your sinuses. Swelling can trap mucus in your sinuses. This lets germs like bacteria or viruses grow, and that leads to infection. Most of the time, sinusitis is caused by a virus.

If bacteria is causing your infection, your doctor may have you wait and see if you get better without antibiotic medicine. You may be prescribed antibiotics if you have:

  • A very bad infection.
  • A weak disease-fighting (immune) system.

Follow these instructions at home:

Medicines

  • Take, use, or apply over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor. These may include nasal sprays.
  • If you were prescribed an antibiotic, take it as told by your doctor. Do not stop taking the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.

Hydrate and Humidify

  • Drink enough water to keep your pee (urine) pale yellow.
  • Use a cool mist humidifier to keep the humidity level in your home above 50%.
  • Breathe in steam for 10–15 minutes, 3–4 times a day or as told by your doctor. You can do this in the bathroom while a hot shower is running.
  • Try not to spend time in cool or dry air.

Rest

  • Rest as much as possible.
  • Sleep with your head raised (elevated).
  • Make sure to get enough sleep each night.

General instructions

  • Put a warm, moist washcloth on your face 3–4 times a day, or as often as told by your doctor. This will help with discomfort.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water. If there is no soap and water, use hand sanitizer.
  • Do not smoke. Avoid being around people who are smoking (secondhand smoke).
  • Keep all follow-up visits as told by your doctor. This is important.

Contact a doctor if:

  • You have a fever.
  • Your symptoms get worse.
  • Your symptoms do not get better within 10 days.

Get help right away if:

  • You have a very bad headache.
  • You cannot stop throwing up (vomiting).
  • You have pain or swelling around your face or eyes.
  • You have trouble seeing.
  • You feel confused.
  • Your neck is stiff.
  • You have trouble breathing.
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