Frequent Sinus Infections? 3 Things You're Doing That Could Be Causing Problems

Health & Medical Blog

Frequent sinus infections can have numerous underlying causes, such as structural abnormalities of the nasal passages and sinus cavities. However, there may be ways you are contributing to frequent sinus infections.

Poor Allergy Management

Many people who experience sinus infections also deal with environmental allergies. When you have seasonal or year-round allergies, treating it as a temporary problem can make sinus infections more frequent. Sinus infections are often triggered by allergies because the allergens can become trapped in your nasal passages or sinuses. Without proper drainage, an infection can develop.

Using retail medications that are intended for the temporary relief of allergies only makes your problems worse. Not only will you deal with the rebound stuffy nose and sneezing, but they will not be effective at controlling allergy symptoms after the first few doses. You can start with antihistamines available at retail outlets by looking for ones that are intended as once-daily use. Use the same medication for a few weeks before you decide if it is effective at controlling your allergies. If not, try the next formulation.

Decongestant Dependence

When you have frequent sinus problems, you likely rely on decongestants, which also exacerbates sinus problems. Instead of reaching for any retail decongestant, look for antihistamines with a combined decongestant that is intended for long-term use. Talk with your doctor about decongestants that are available with anti-inflammatory properties. Your doctor may prescribe one or inform you of the ones available at retail locations. Traditional retail decongestants do nothing to combat inflammation inside your nasal passages. Swollen, inflamed tissues inside the nose simply harbor bacteria, because they obstruct sinus drainage.

Bad Bedroom Environment

You may not think about your bedroom as increasing sinus problems, but there are a couple of changes you should consider. If you frequently lie down in your bed and immediately feel stuffy, the likely culprit could be allergens in your room or bedding. Make sure you are frequently washing and changing your bedding, which includes pillow cases and infrequently washed bedding, such as quilts and comforters. It is best to invest in a covers for pillows, mattresses, and large bedding items, since it will offer protective benefits and make it easier to keep these surfaces allergen-free.

Vacuuming and dusting in your bedroom is also critical for keeping allergens down. You may overlook vacuuming small crevices, such as between the mattress and box spring, or where your mattress set meets the frame. A significant amount of dust can accumulate under the bed, making regular vacuuming a necessity. If you frequently like to open your bedroom window, it is ideal to invest in a small air filtration device to minimize the amount of outside allergens that settle inside your room.

Before you try surgical interventions to alleviate frequent sinus infections, consider what you can change to make the condition more manageable. The types of medications you take and your household environment can significantly impact the frequency of sinus infections.

For help with a sinus infection, contact a clinic such as Rochester Otolaryngology Group PC.

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9 June 2016