How do you get rid of a sinus infection without antibiotics?

Consider these other forms of treatments instead of antibiotics:
  1. Decongestants. These medications are available for over-the-counter purchase. ...
  2. Over-the-counter pain relievers. Aspirins, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve temporary pain.
  3. Saline nasal spray.


What is the quickest way to get rid of a sinus infection?

These self-help steps can help relieve sinusitis symptoms:
  1. Rest. This will help your body fight infection and speed recovery.
  2. Drink fluids. Continue to drink plenty of fluids.
  3. Use a warm compress. ...
  4. Moisten your sinus cavities. ...
  5. Rinse your nasal passages.


What kills a sinus infection?

Antibiotics. A bacterial infection is one of the most common causes of long-lasting sinusitis. Antibiotics are the first line of defense against bacterial infection.


What is a natural antibiotic for a sinus infection?

Echinacea is an herb that can help your body fight off viruses and bacteria. Professional herbalists will often recommend this herb for natural treatment of sinus infections.

What happens if you let a sinus infection go untreated?

Most sinus infections last from a couple of days to a few weeks and are not a serious medical concern, but if left untreated, sinusitis can lead to further complications. These include nasal polyps, a deviated septum and serious allergies.


Ask Dr. Mike: What is a sinus infection and how do I treat it?



How do you tell if a sinus infection is viral or bacterial?

If your sinus infection lasts for about a week, it's usually due to a virus. Bacterial sinus infections, on the other hand, can persist for some time. They usually last for 10 days or longer. While viral infections usually start to get better after a few days, bacterial infections tend to get worse over time.

What are the stages of sinus infection?

Stages of Sinusitis
  • Acute Sinusitis: This is the first stage of sinusitis. ...
  • Subacute Sinusitis: The symptoms of subacute sinusitis last up to 4-12 weeks. ...
  • Chronic Sinusitis: Sinusitis that lasts for more than 3 months is termed as chronic sinusitis.


Can I cure my own sinus infection?

Sinus infections almost always get better on their own. Antibiotics won't help a sinus infection caused by a virus or an airborne irritation, like secondhand smoke. But there are some things you can do to try to speed up the recovery process.


What is the best home remedy for sinus infection?

Home Remedies
  • Use warm heat. Put a warm, wet towel on your face. ...
  • Try a nasal saline solution. While they don't contain medicine (saline is salt water), they can help keep your nasal passages moist.
  • Flush out your sinuses. ...
  • Drink lots of fluids. ...
  • Rest.


When should I go to the doctor for a sinus infection?

See a doctor if you have: Severe symptoms, such as severe headache or facial pain. Symptoms that get worse after improving. Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without getting better.

How can I clear my sinuses naturally?

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  1. Drink fluids. Water or juice will help dilute mucous secretions and promote drainage. ...
  2. Moisten your sinus cavities. Drape a towel over your head as you breathe in the vapor from a bowl of hot water. ...
  3. Apply warm compresses to your face. ...
  4. Rinse your nasal passages. ...
  5. Rest. ...
  6. Sleep with your head elevated.


How long is a sinus infection contagious?

A sinus infection caused by a viral infection lasts about seven to 10 days, meaning you'll be contagious with the virus for up to two weeks. If your symptoms last more than 10 days, or if they subside after a week then return again a few days later, you likely have a bacterial sinus infection that cannot be spread.

How long does a sinus infection last without antibiotics?

About 70 percent of the time, symptoms of acute bacterial sinus infections go away within two weeks without antibiotics. When sinusitis symptoms last seven to 10 days or more, it's a good idea to see a doctor to discuss treatment options.

How do you get rid of sinusitis overnight?

Nasal washing or irrigation with saline (a natural nasal-safe decongestant) or a common over the counter nasal safe medicine can help reduce the excess mucus build-up and relieve other symptoms of post nasal drip, such as hacking and coughing.


How long does it take for a sinus infection to run its course?

Acute sinusitis lasts for less than four weeks. Chronic sinusitis can last for more than 12 weeks. The majority of sinus infection sufferers will see their symptoms start to resolve after about 10 days. While one to two infections a year is considering normal, more than four requires medical attention.

What can I drink for sinus drainage?

Drinking plenty of clear fluids will help the body stay hydrated during a sinus infection.
...
Examples of fluids to drink when a person has a sinus infection include:
  • plain water.
  • hot water with lemon, honey, or ginger.
  • herbal teas.
  • broth.


Is A sinus infection Contagious?

No. Since they form inside the nose and not through an outside infection, bacterial sinus infections are not contagious. The underlying disease that caused a sinus infection—like a cold or flu—can be contagious, though.


What are the 4 main symptoms of sinusitis?

Common signs and symptoms of chronic sinusitis include:
  • Nasal inflammation.
  • Thick, discolored discharge from the nose (runny nose)
  • Drainage down the back of the throat (postnasal drainage)
  • Blocked or stuffy (congested) nose causing difficulty breathing through your nose.


What triggers sinusitis?

Sinusitis is usually the result of a cold or flu virus spreading to the sinuses from the upper airways. Only a few cases are caused by bacteria infecting the sinuses. An infected tooth or fungal infection can also occasionally cause the sinuses to become inflamed.

Which fruit is good for sinus?

Take Antioxidants in Plenty

Bright colored vegetables and fruits such as berries, kiwi, pumpkin, papaya, sweet potatoes, and pineapple are all rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Pineapple also contains enzymes that break down the buildup on the sinuses and reduces inflammation.


How do you confirm sinus infection?

Common symptoms of sinus infection include:
  1. Postnasal drip.
  2. Discolored nasal discharge (greenish in color)
  3. Nasal stuffiness or congestion.
  4. Tenderness of the face (particularly under the eyes or at the bridge of the nose)
  5. Frontal headaches.
  6. Pain in the teeth.
  7. Coughing.
  8. Fever.


Can Flonase be used for sinus infection?

Treating a sinus infection means unblocking and draining the sinuses. Corticosteroid nasal sprays such as Flonase and Nasacort are the best source for treatment because they help reduce swelling in the nasal passages.

Should I stay home with a bacterial sinus infection?

Sinus infections can be viral or bacterial. “Either way, it's best to stay home,” Wigmore says. Viral sinus infections are often contagious. If you have had symptoms longer than one week, or if you have severe facial pain, teeth/jaw pain, or fever, you may have a bacterial infection and should consult your doctor.


What is a natural antibiotic?

Honey is one the oldest known antibiotics, tracing back to ancient times. Egyptians frequently used honey as a natural antibiotic and skin protectant. Honey contains hydrogen peroxide , which may account for some of its antibacterial properties.

Do sinus infections make you tired?

Fatigue. As your body works hard to fight off the sinus infection, you'll feel more tired than usual. Fatigue can be also be caused by head pain, a lack of adequate sleep, and difficulty breathing due to sinusitis.