Got a stuffy nose, face pressure, and a cough that won’t quit? Chances are you’re dealing with a sinus infection, also called sinusitis. The good news is you don’t have to suffer for weeks. Below are the most effective ways to knock out the infection, ease the pain, and get back to breathing easy.
When symptoms last more than 10 days or get worse after a few days, doctors often prescribe antibiotics. Not every sinus infection needs one—most are viral—but bacterial cases respond well to drugs like amoxicillin, doxycycline, or a broader‑spectrum option if you’re allergic. Take the full course, even if you feel better, to prevent a relapse.
If you’re dealing with severe swelling or pain, a short course of oral steroids (e.g., prednisone) can shrink inflamed tissue fast. These are usually paired with antibiotics to clear the infection while the swelling comes down.
For mild cases, over‑the‑counter (OTC) products do the trick. Decongestant pills (pseudoephedrine) or nasal sprays (oxymetazoline) shrink blood vessels in the lining, letting mucus drain. Use nasal sprays for no more than three days—your nose can get rebound congestion if you overdo it.
Saline rinses are a cheap, drug‑free way to flush out mucus. A squeeze bottle or neti pot with lukewarm salt water clears out the sinuses and reduces pressure. Do it twice a day until symptoms fade.
Stay hydrated. Water, broth, and herbal teas thin the mucus, making it easier to drain. Warm steam from a shower or a bowl of hot water also loosens blockages. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water can boost the soothing effect.
Call your doctor if you have a fever over 101°F, facial swelling that gets worse, vision changes, or pain that doesn’t improve after a week of OTC treatment. Persistent symptoms could mean a fungal infection or a sinus cavity that needs surgical drainage.
People with weakened immune systems, asthma, or chronic sinus issues should get evaluated sooner. Early treatment can stop complications like chronic sinusitis or spread of infection to the eyes or brain.
Remember, most sinus infections improve on their own within two weeks. Combining the right meds with simple home tricks can speed up relief and keep you breathing easy. Got more questions? Our pharmacy guides are always here to help you pick the safest, most effective options for your sinus infection treatment plan.
