Treatment of Sinusitis
Sinusitis occurs when the tissue lining the sinuses becomes swollen and inflamed. The sinuses are air-filled spaces in the bone structure of the skull behind the nose, cheeks, eyes, and forehead. The sinuses drain through small openings (ostia) that can become blocked by swollen lining caused by allergies, common cold, or structural components such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps. A blocked sinus causes mucus to build up, providing a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to infection.비염치료
The most important treatment for sinusitis is symptomatic therapy. Taking over-the-counter antihistamines, oral steroids, and saline nasal sprays and irrigations can reduce inflammation and help clear the clogged sinuses. If over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen are not helping, an ear, nose, and throat doctor (otolaryngologist) can prescribe stronger narcotics or a short course of antibiotics.
A doctor can also give patients tips on how to prevent sinus infections, including keeping a proper diet. Certain foods — such as garlic, berries, and green leafy vegetables — have natural antibiotic properties that can help bolster the body’s own infection-fighting processes. Avoiding foods — like dairy, processed meats, and refined sugar — that can increase inflammation is also helpful.
Adding dietary supplements that support healthy immune function to a person’s regular diet can also aid in prevention of sinusitis. Vitamin C, which has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and increasing the speed of recovery from viral infections, is one such supplement.
If over-the-counter medications do not ease symptoms, or if the infection does not respond to medication, a physician may recommend surgery. Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy Center offers sinus surgeries for those who have not found relief through other treatment options.
Sinusitis is most often caused by a bacterial infection. To treat the bacterial infection, a patient will be given antibiotics such as amoxicillin or a similar antibiotic. The antibiotic will be given for a specified number of days. It is important that the antibiotic be taken as directed, even if symptoms improve, because stopping the medication early can lead to resistance to the antibiotic.
Patients with chronic or recurrent sinusitis who have not responded to medicinal treatments or other non-invasive therapies may benefit from surgical interventions such as balloon sinus dilation and/or endoscopic sinus surgeries. To learn more about your treatment options, visit Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy online or call us at 215-590-4700.라경찬한의원