3 Ways To Reduce Recurrent Sinus Infections

People with obstructions to their sinus passages may also deal with frequent sinus infections. The more often these infections occur, they can become harder to treat and possibly cause more damage to your sinus. Preventing infections from occurring is the most effective way to deal with recurrent issues.

Irrigate Your Sinuses

Sinus irrigation is an at-home method of keeping your sinuses clear and moisturized. You can only irrigate your sinuses if you do not have an infection. So, if you feel any indications of an infection, such as pain, pressure, or unusual drainage, it is best to wait until the issue resolves. The irrigation kits typically come with a pot or squeeze bottle and packets of saline powder. You mix the powder with distilled water to be certain the water is sterile and free from other impurities. Sinus irrigation helps remove allergens that can irritate your sinuses and contribute to ongoing issues with allergies and infections. Moisturizing your sinuses also helps prevent nosebleeds and encourages the natural mucous production that helps rid your sinuses of bacteria and other debris.

Keep Your Sinuses Clear

Decongestants are important for people with ongoing sinus issues. Not only are nasal decongestants used so you can breathe easier, but when your sinus are open, they can drain more freely. Most decongestants are only designed for occasional use. There are some available at retail stores that used to be available by prescription and contain a nasal steroid. The benefit of using a nasal steroid over a standard decongestant is the steroids help reduce inflammation that is often responsible for sinus congestion. Before using a retail nasal steroid, be sure to speak with your doctor be certain it is the right approach. As with any steroid, there can be risks associated with chronic use.

Consider Surgery

Sinus surgery is usually for people with significant obstruction to their nose and sinuses that leads to recurrent infections. Some people might benefit from plastic surgery if their sinus problems are caused by a deviated septum, typically caused by a broken nose that did not heal straight. An ears, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor often handles surgeries that address the tissue within the nose and sinuses. The sinuses might be unblocked by removing excess tissue in the nasal cavity or removing obstructions that might be located in the sinuses of the forehead or elsewhere in the face. Many procedures can be done with a small camera inserted into the nose, which significantly reduces recovery time.

Recurrent sinus infections are not a condition you need to deal with indefinitely. Using a preventative techniques can help most people avoid ongoing issues with sinus infections.