Chronic Sinus Infections

Symptoms

• Primary symptoms include thick yellow or green discharge and severe congestion that makes breathing through the nose difficult. Aches and pains are common around the jaws, teeth, eyes, cheeks, nose and forehead. Your ability to smell and taste is inhibited and you might have a cough that get worse at night. Other symptoms include ear pain, sore throat, bad breath, fatigue and nausea.
  
  

Causes

• Several conditions can prompt a sinus infection. Allergies can trigger fungal infections while respiratory tract infections inflame the sinuses making them a hot spot for bacterial growth. A weakened immune system also creates a potential breeding ground for bacteria.
  
  

Antibiotic Treatment

• The infection itself will need a course of antibiotics. Commonly used antibiotics include amoxicillin (Amoxil and Trimox), doxycycline (Doryx and Monodox) or the combo treatments trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra). Taking all of the prescribed medicine is very important to make sure all the bacteria is eradicated--stopping early can cause the infection to return.
  
  

Treatment for Symptoms of Infection

• Saline nasal spray rinses out the nasal passages and can be used several times a day. Nasal sprays that contain steroids quickly ease inflammation and include Flonase and Nasacort.
  
  Steroids taken orally or through injection are used for severe cases of inflammation. Decongestants in the form of liquids, tablets and nasal sprays are available over-the-counter and by prescription. OTC pain relievers can effectively relief the pain that frequently occurs in the face and mouth.
  
  

Other Suggestions

• Get plenty of rest to build up your immune system's ability to fight off the infection. Drinking plenty of fluids help with drainage; stick to juice and water. Warm compresses can ease congestion and facial pain. Steam your nasal passages and sleep with your head elevated to promote drainage.
  
  Measures to avoid a sinus infection include avoiding people who are sick to minimize your risk of contacting illnesses that can cause bacterial growth and managing any allergies, which prompt fungal infections in the sinuses.