Bloomington Leader

Thirty million Americans suffer from sinusitis each year, according to Aurora Health Care, and the doctors of Indianapolis Sinus Center are trying to discourage those patients from making avoidable mistakes when it comes to sinus infections.

Sinus infections are a result of fluid buildup located in the pockets (sinuses) of the face, an invitation for germs to run rampant. Previous colds, seasonal allergies, smoking, secondhand smoke exposure, structural complications in the sinuses such as polyps, a weak immune system, and taking drugs that can weaken the immune system are all factors that can increase the risk of getting sinus infections.

Skipping straight to antibiotics isn't necessarily the right approach.

"Our philosophy is to provide the very best state-of-the-art care for chronic nasal and sinus problems, utilizing the latest minimally invasive technologies to allow for physiologic treatment and maintaining normal nasal function, as well as reduced pain and shorter recovery times," Dr. Anthony Sanders of Indianapolis Sinus Center told the Bloomington Leader. "Typically people can be back to work within a few days after the procedure."

Antibiotics are not helpful for most sinus infections, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Doctors may recommend that patients "wait it out" before using antibiotics as a remedy. 

Common symptoms of sinus infections include a runny or stuffy nose, facial pain or pressure, headache, postnasal drip, sore throat, cough or bad breath. 

Patients are advised to seek medical care if they are experiencing severe symptoms or have a headache, facial pain, symptoms that last more than 10 days or a fever that lasts longer than three or four days. 

Some over-the-counter treatment options for sinus infections include nasal decongestants, antihistamines, nasal decongestant sprays, allergy medications and nasal corticosteroid sprays. Always consult a doctor before seeking any medication.

Your body should heal itself in the case of a mild or moderate sinusitis problem, according to WebMD. Sinus patients should try to avoid antibiotics that could potentially cause antibiotic resistance over time. 

Chronic sinusitis is responsible for 4.1 million doctor visits and more than 230,000 emergency room visits a year, according to the CDC. Chronic sinusitis is defined as the condition persisting three months or longer, reports the Mayo Clinic.

To prevent sinus infections, it is recommended that vulnerable people wash hands often, get flu and pneumonia vaccines, socially distance from people who have colds or upper-respiratory infections, avoid smoking or secondhand smoke, and use a clean humidifier in the home. 

There are several different causes of sinusitis, so it is important to see a doctor if your condition persists and find out what your treatment options are.