Sinus Infection
Sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, is an inflammation and infection of the sinuses in the nasal cavity. It is commonly caused by viruses, allergies, bacteria, or structural abnormalities. Symptoms include facial pain, congestion, nasal discharge, cough, headache, and fever. Treatment varies based on the cause and severity and may include self-care measures, antibiotics, and over-the-counter medications. Prevention involves good hygiene, allergen avoidance, and maintaining nasal moisture. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or
Best medications for Sinus Infection
| Drug Name | Class | Route | Standard Dosage | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dupixent | Monoclonal Antibodies | Subcutaneous | 200, 100, 300 MG/2ML | from$1766.25 |
| Unasyn | Penicillin Antibiotics | Injection | 1.5 (1-0.5), 3 (2-1), 15 (10-5) GM | from$42.25 |
| Ampicillin-Sulbactam Sodium | Penicillin Antibiotic / Beta Lactamase Inhibitor Combinations | Injection | 1.5 (1-0.5), 3 (2-1), 15 (10-5) GM | from$42.25 |
| Clarithromycin | Macrolide Antibiotics | Oral | 500, 250, 125 MG | from$20.55 |
| Moxifloxacin HCl | Quinolone Antibiotics | Oral | 400, 0.3, 0.16, 1, 5, 0.5 MG | from$35.82 |
| Zithromax | Macrolide Antibiotics | Oral | 500, 250, 200, 600, 1, 100 GM | from$13.93 |
| Cefprozil | Cephalosporin Antibiotics | Oral | 500, 250, 125 MG/5ML | from$11.00 |
| Augmentin | Penicillin Antibiotic / Beta Lactamase Inhibitor Combinations | Oral | 500-125, 250-62.5, 600-42.9, 125-31.25 MG/5ML | from$24.01 |
| Cefdinir | Cephalosporin Antibiotics | Oral | 250, 125, 300 MG | from$20.52 |
| levoFLOXacin | Quinolone Antibiotics | Oral | 1.5, 500, 250, 25, 0.5, 750 MG | from$12.11 |
Overview
A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, occurs when the sinuses in the nasal cavity become inflamed and infected. Sinuses are air-filled cavities located within the bones surrounding the nose. When they become blocked and filled with fluid, bacteria, viruses, or fungi can grow and cause an infection.
Causes and Symptoms
Sinus infections are commonly caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold. Other causes include allergies, bacterial infections, and structural abnormalities in the nasal cavity. Symptoms of a sinus infection may vary but often include:
Facial pain and pressure
Nasal congestion
Thick nasal discharge
Cough
Headache
Fever
Treatment
The treatment of a sinus infection depends on its cause and severity. In most cases, sinus infections caused by viruses will resolve on their own within a week or two. Self-care measures can help relieve symptoms, such as:
Using saline nasal sprays or rinses
Applying warm compresses to the face
Drinking plenty of fluids
Getting adequate rest
If the infection is bacterial or persists for more than 10 days, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers and decongestants may also be recommended to alleviate discomfort and congestion.
Prevention
While sinus infections cannot always be prevented, there are certain measures that can reduce the risk of developing an infection. These include:
Practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria
Avoiding known allergens that trigger sinusitis
Keeping the nasal passages moist with saline sprays or rinses
Quitting smoking or avoiding exposure to smoke
Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air
When to See a Doctor
It is advisable to consult a doctor if symptoms of a sinus infection persist for more than 10 days, worsen over time, or are accompanied by severe headache, high fever, or changes in vision. A healthcare professional can assess the condition, identify the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment.