Approximately 30 million adults in the United States are diagnosed with sinus infections (sinusitis) every year. This common condition is responsible for over 20% of prescriptions for adults and accounts for more adult outpatient antibiotic prescriptions than any other diagnosis.
But antibiotics are not always the answer – and improper use can cause more harm than good. Read on to learn the symptoms of sinus infections and why antibiotics may not always be the cure.
A sinus infection is the inflammation of your sinus cavities (the hollow spaces in your skull around your eyes and nose), which is often caused by viruses or bacteria. This inflammation blocks nasal drainage, allowing mucus and germs to build up.
Sinus infections are often mistaken for the common cold, allergies (allergic rhinitis), influenza (flu), and COVID-19 due to overlapping symptoms. The symptoms of a sinus infection typically include:
Sinus infections are typically classified by duration:
For many people who suspect they have a sinus infection, the first instinct is to seek an antibiotic to speed up their recovery.
However, most early-stage sinus infections are viral, and antibiotics do not treat viruses. In the early stages of an acute sinus infection, symptoms are the least severe and respond well to at-home remedies.
Warm compress – Apply a warm, moist compress to your nose or forehead for 3–5 minutes several times daily to open nasal passages and relieve sinus pressure. You can use a store-bought pack or a washcloth soaked in hot water. Ensure the water is not too hot and you avoid prolonged exposure to protect your skin.
Decongestant spray – Helps relieve swelling in the nasal passages. Be sure to read the instructions on the spray for optimal results. Over-the-counter decongestant sprays include Afrin (oxymetazoline), Mucinex (guaifenesin), and Neo-Synephrine (phenylephrine). You should check with your provider before using as these sprays can have side effects, especially when used for more than 7 days.
Sinus massage – To relieve pressure, gently massage the frontal sinuses above your eyebrows or the maxillary sinuses below your cheekbones using light pressure. You can target any area of sinus discomfort by rubbing these pressure points to help promote natural nasal drainage.
If your sinus infection symptoms are severe, get worse or have not improved after two weeks, or if you have a weakened immune system, antibiotics may be the answer.
Like all antibiotics, the antibiotics used to treat sinus infections (such as doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, Augmentin, and others) can cause side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and allergic reactions. Another risk is antibiotic resistance, which is when bacteria develop defenses against the antibiotic that is meant to kill them. Taking antibiotics when you don’t need them only increases these risks.
The normal recovery time for a sinus infection after antibiotics is 10-14 days, as symptoms like nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and facial pressure begin to improve.
If your symptoms are worsening or last longer than 5 days, or you have severe symptoms like a high fever, painful headache or blurred vision you should seek care. You should also seek care if you have taken antibiotics and your symptoms still have not improved after 10-14 days.
All vybe locations are open 7 days a week with extended hours, walk in or schedule an appointment today. vybe is certified in antibiotic stewardship and is committed to the proper use of antibiotics.
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