Treatment for Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, typically along with inflammation of the nasal passages. The cause may be a bacteria or a virus, however a virus is more common. Each year, over 30 million adults in the United States are affected by sinusitis. Symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, fever, fatigue, headache, and facial pressure. If a virus is the cause, symptoms typically improve or resolve completely within approximately one to two weeks. If certain symptoms last longer than a week or if symptoms become worse, bacteria may be the cause.

Whether the cause is a virus or bacteria, generally treatment consists of therapy to improve symptoms for the first 10 days, unless symptoms are severe or become worse. Typically, the condition will resolve within 10 days. For relief of pain, nonsteriodal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil) may be taken. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) also may be taken for pain relief. Mometasone (Nasonex) is a nasally inhaled corticosteroid that works to reduce inflammation. Oxymetazoline (Afrin, others) is a decongestant that may also be used intranasally. Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent) sprayed into the nostrils may alleviate a runny nose. If the cause is determined to be bacterial, amoxicillin (Moxatag) or another antibiotic may be prescribed.