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Medication for Sinusitis
Is it possible to cure sinusitis through medication without involving surgery? Do antibiotics work for sinusitis? – These are some of the commonly asked questions regarding Sinusitis and medication. As we have explained in detail in our previous article on the Causes of Sinusitis, the treatment plan depends entirely on what is causing Sinusitis in an individual. For example, if the cause of sinusitis is bacterial or allergy, medication may be of some help, whereas if sinusitis is caused due to structural abnormalities such as deviated septum, surgery would be the only way of treatment.
In this article, we will explain the possible medication for sinusitis. We have an entire section dedicated to the various surgical options here. The best sinusitis treatment is generally a combination of different approaches – typically medication, self care and surgery.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are prescribed if your sinusitis is because of a bacterial infection. For acute sinusitis your course may last about 2 weeks whereas for chronic sinusitis it might be longer. Antibiotics may not always be the best treatment for sinusitis as your body may be able to cure itself. As with any other condition, overuse of bacteria can lead to antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics may be recommended to those suffering from diabetes or other severe issues related to heart or lungs.
Painkillers
As we have listed in the symptoms of sinusitis, some patients may suffer from facial pain, headache, which is when your doctor might recommend over-the-counter painkillers. These painkillers should be taken with caution and overuse might have unwanted effects.
Allergy Medicines
If your sinusitis is caused due to allergies your doctor might prescribe antihistamines which will prevent your allergic reaction from triggering. Antihistamines should be taken with caution and not taken unless prescribed by your doctor as some of them might contain drying agents that can make mucus thicker.
Steroids
Steroids may be recommended in cases of severe swelling and inflammation of the nasal passages and sinus membranes. Topical nasal corticosteroids are also useful in case of nasal polyps as shrink the polyps and prevent them from recurring. Your doctor may recommend nasal or oral steroids depending on the nature and severity of your condition.
Decongestants
Overuse of decongestants can often complicate your sinusitis by increasing nasal congestion. Hence your doctor would recommend decongestants with caution. Decongestants may come as both pills and nasal sprays.
Home remedies can also help provide some relief and when combined with medication can make the condition manageable. In the next article we list out home remedies that might prove effective in managing sinusitis. Medication for sinusitis should be used only as recommended by your doctor. Improper medication can make the condition worse.
More Information on medication for sinusitis : https://www.webmd.com/allergies/antibiotics
