Sinus Infections Don't Always Need Doctor
That stuffy, runny nose feeling that won't go away could be a sinus infection, but new research shows that you might want to think twice before seeing a doctor.
Posted — UpdatedThat stuffy, runny nose feeling that won't go away could be a sinus infection, but new research shows that you might want to think twice before seeing a doctor.
Sinus infections often happen 10 to 28 days after a cold. Symptoms may include thick and discolored nasal drainage. Sufferers also feel pressure in their face. Their top teeth might hurt, and their ears feel full.
At times like those, many people go their doctor begging for an antibiotic. Commonly, "Those patients who are getting worse rather than better after a cold are put on 'antis' to treat the bacterial growth in the sinuses," Dr. Rober Fox, an allergist, said.
New research into what sinus treatments worked best, though, suggests that common approach might be off base.
"There was no major difference between those who were on antibiotics, inter-nasal steriod sprays versus a sugar pill or saline nasal spray," Fox said.
Patients might get impatient waiting for the body to cure itself, though, so doctors recommend reducing congestion symptoms with an inexpensive nasal wash. Those washes are on drug store shelves, or individuals can make their own with just a quarter tablespoon of salt and 8 ounces of water. It's an alternative to antibiotics – and helps everyone.
People with chronic or recurrent sinus infections were not part of the study.
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