Una infección de los senos nasales tiene síntomas similares a los de un resfriado común. La gran diferencia entre los dos es cuánto tiempo duran esos síntomas. Los síntomas de la sinusitis usualmente duran no más de 10 días. La sinusitis crónica puede durar 12 semanas o más.
Las infecciones de los senos nasales casi siempre mejoran solas. Los antibióticos no ayudarán con una infección de los senos nasales causada por un virus o una irritación causada por el aire, como el humo de segunda mano, pero existen algunas cosas que puedes hacer para tratar de acelerar el proceso de recuperación.
Para ayudar a eliminar el virus de tu cuerpo, asegúrate de hidratarte adecuadamente. Trata de tomar al menos 8 onzas de agua cada 2 horas.
Para atacar el virus, agrega a tus comidas alimentos que estimulen tu sistema inmunitario como ajo, jengibre y cebollas. Para usar el ajo de manera medicinal, la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) recomienda comer de 2 a 5 gramos de ajo fresco o tomar de 300 a 1,000 miligramos de extracto de ajo al día.
También puedes intentar tomar té de jengibre. Agrega miel pura para una estimulación adicional. La miel está llena de antioxidantes y tiene propiedades antibacterianas y antimicóticas.
Mantener tus senos nasales hidratados puede ayudar a aliviar la presión. A continuación, encontrarás algunos consejos para hidratar tus senos nasales:
- Durante la noche, duerme con un humidificador en tu habitación para ayudar a aliviar los bloqueos nasales nocturnos.
- Durante el día y antes de dormir, utiliza aerosoles nasales salinos naturales. Estos se pueden comprar en tu farmacia local y usarlos varias veces al día para ayudar a aliviar la congestión.
- Expone tus senos nasales al vapor. Toma duchas calientes regularmente y respira el aire húmedo. También puedes llenar un tazón con agua hirviendo e inclinarte durante 10 minutos. Cubre tu cabeza y el tazón con una toalla gruesa. Mantén tu nariz 10 pulgadas sobre el agua.
El aceite de eucalipto puede ayudar a abrir los senos nasales y deshacerte de la mucosidad. Un estudio publicado en The Laryngoscope determinó que el ingrediente principal en el aceite de eucalipto, cineole, ayuda a las personas con sinusitis aguda a recuperarse más rápido.
Asegúrate de solo utilizar aceites esenciales de grado alimenticio. Frota una gota de cada aceite en el paladar de tu boca, luego toma un vaso con agua.
La irrigación nasal es un proceso popular para aliviar los síntomas de la sinusitis. De acuerdo con una investigación reciente, usar una olla neti con una solución salina puede eliminar algunos síntomas de la sinusitis crónica.
Sigue las indicaciones específicas de tu olla neti. A continuación, encontrarás las indicaciones generales:
- Llena la olla con solución salina.
- Inclina tu cabeza sobre el lavabo en un ángulo de 45 grados.
- Inserta la boquilla de la olla en tu fosa nasal. Vierte cuidadosamente la solución salina en esa fosa nasal.
- Repite el proceso con la otra fosa nasal.
Asegúrate de desinfectar tu olla neti después de cada uso. Solo utiliza agua destilada. El agua del lavabo puede tener contaminantes como bacterias o parásitos que podrían empeorar tu afección.
Aplicar calor húmedo puede ayudar a aliviar el dolor de los senos nasales. Coloca toallas tibias y húmedas alrededor de tu nariz, mejillas y ojos para aliviar el dolor facial. Esto también ayudará a despejar los conductos nasales desde el exterior.
Si los remedios caseros no te alivian, pide a tu farmacéutico que recomiende un tratamiento de venta libre. Los descongestionantes de venta libre, como la pseudoefedrina (Sudafed), pueden aliviar los síntomas de la sinusitis al estrechar los vasos nasales. Esto ayuda a reducir la inflamación e hinchazón. Esto puede mejorar el flujo de drenaje de los senos nasales.
El dolor causado por una acumulación de presión en los conductos nasales puede aliviarse con uno de los siguientes:
- aspirina
- acetaminofén (Tylenol)
- ibuprofeno (Advil, Motrin)
Si la congestión nasal es ocasionada por una reacción alérgica, los antihistamínicos pueden ayudar a bloquear la inflamación.
Siempre sigue el consejo de los farmacéuticos y los lineamientos en el empaque cuando tomes medicamentos de venta libre.
8. Pide un medicamento con receta
(Video) Managing and Treating Sinus Infections | Mohamad Chaaban, MD
8. Pide un medicamento con receta
Es posible que tu médico no recete antibióticos a menos que tengas sinusitis crónica, o si la infección de los senos nasales es bacteriana. Tu alergólogo o médico determinará si tu infección de los senos nasales es ocasionada por bacterias o un virus. Lo hará de esta manera:
- preguntando sobre tus síntomas
- realizando un examen físico
- realizando un hisopado del interior de tu nariz
La amoxicilina (Amoxil) es un medicamento que comúnmente se receta para las infecciones de los senos nasales. La amoxicilina-clavulanato (Augmentin) suele recetarse para una infección bacteriana de los senos nasales. Dependiendo del tipo de antibiótico, pueden tomarse durante 3 a 28 días. Es importante tomar antibióticos durante el tiempo que indica el médico. No dejes de tomarlos antes de tiempo, aún si tus síntomas mejoran.
Se requiere tiempo para superar la sinusitis. Descansa mucho para ayudar a tu cuerpo a contrarrestar la infección.
Consulta con tu médico si tú o tu hijo tiene:
- una temperatura más alta que 100.4°F (38°C)
- síntomas que han durado más de 10 días
- síntomas que empeoran
- síntomas que no se alivian con medicamentos de venta libre
- varias infecciones de los senos nasales durante el último año
Si tienes una infección de los senos nasales durante más de 8 semanas, o tienes más de cuatro infecciones de los senos nasales al año, es posible que tengas sinusitis crónica. Las causas comunes de una sinusitis crónica son:
- alergias
- tumores nasales
- infecciones del tracto respiratorio
¿Qué causa una infección de los senos nasales?
(Video) Sinus Headaches: Causes & Treatment
¿Qué causa una infección de los senos nasales?
Una infección de los senos nasales ocurre cuando el tejido en los senos nasales se inflama. Esto causa una acumulación de mucosidad, dolor y molestia. Los senos nasales son bolsas llenas de aire en los huesos de la cara que forman la parte superior del tracto respiratorio. Estas bolsas van desde la nariz hasta la garganta.
Una infección de los senos nasales puede ser causada por cualquier cosa que evita que los senos nasales drenen, como:
- resfriado común
- fiebre del heno
- exposición a alérgenos
- rinitis no alérgica
- cambios en la presión del aire
Los virus causan 9 de 10 infecciones de los senos nasales en adultos, de acuerdo con los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades de Estados Unidos (CDC).
Para reducir tu riesgo de infección de los senos nasales:
- Lava tus manos con frecuencia, especialmente después de estar en lugares concurridos, como el transporte público.
- Mantente al día con las vacunas recomendadas.
- Limita exponerte a personas con resfriados u otras infecciones respiratorias superiores, si es posible.
- Evita fumar y exponerte al humo de segunda mano.
- Utiliza un humidificador limpio para mantener la humedad del aire en tu casa.
- Descansa suficiente si tienes resfriado para reducir tu riesgo de complicaciones, como sinusitis.
Los síntomas comunes de la sinusitis incluyen:
- congestión nasal
- pérdida de sentido del olfato
- mucosidad que gotea de tu nariz hacia la garganta
- secreción nasal verde
- sensibilidad debajo de los ojos o en el puente de la nariz
- dolor moderado a severo en la frente o sienes
- tos
- fatiga
- fiebre
- mal aliento o sabor desagradable en la boca
Las infecciones de los senos nasales son muy comunes. Los síntomas normalmente desaparecen solos en 10 días. Los medicamentos de venta libre y los remedios naturales pueden ayudar a aliviar tus síntomas. Si tus síntomas duran más de 10 días, habla con tu médico.
Lee el artículo en inglés.
FAQs
How long does a sinus infection last? ›
An “acute” sinus infection lasts anywhere from ten days up to eight weeks. A “chronic” infection lasts even longer. It is ongoing — it may seem like it's improving, and then it comes right back as bad as it was at first. Chronic sinus infections may drag on for months at a time.
What kills a sinus infection naturally? ›- Nasal irrigation. Use a Neti pot or a small bulb syringe to flush out your nasal passages. ...
- Steam therapy. Try taking a hot shower and breathing in the steam to help open up your sinus passages. ...
- Drink water. ...
- Warm compress. ...
- Rest. ...
- Sleep while elevated. ...
- Use a humidifier.
Causes. Sinus infections happen when fluid builds up in the air-filled pockets in the face (sinuses). This fluid buildup allows germs to grow. Viruses cause most sinus infections, but bacteria can cause some sinus infections.
What are the 4 main symptoms of sinusitis? ›Drainage down the back of the throat (postnasal drainage) Blocked or stuffy (congested) nose causing difficulty breathing through your nose. Pain, tenderness and swelling around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead. Reduced sense of smell and taste.
What foods cure sinus infections? ›Vitamins and minerals — Colorful fruits and vegetables — like apricots, cantaloupe, strawberries, red and green peppers, kale, parsley and broccoli — get high praise from the scientists working on sinus healers world-wide. They contain lots of vitamin C which is known to fend off colds, allergies and sinus infections.
Can a sinus infection fix itself? ›About 70% of sinus infections go away within two weeks without antibiotics.
Is A sinus infection contagious? ›Are sinus infections contagious? “Because many times sinus infections are caused by viruses, they can be contagious like other infections, such as colds,” Melinda said. “If you have a sinus infection, it's important to use good hygiene skills.
How do I massage my sinuses to drain? ›Place each of your index and middle fingers on either side of your nose, just between your cheekbones and upper jaw. Try using your thumbs instead of your index fingers for stronger pressure. Gently massage this area using a circular motion. Repeat for around 30 seconds to a minute.
What can I drink for sinus drainage? ›When you're fighting sinus symptoms, you can put the kettle on for caffeine-free teas — (caffeine dehydrates the body, so options like black tea can irritate the sinuses). Some top herbal choices, which can also help clear congestion, are peppermint, chamomile, eucalyptus, wild thyme and blackberry teas.
Does blowing nose make congestion worse? ›Blowing the nose can worsen the feeling of congestion due to pressure build-up within the nostrils, which may shoot up the mucus into the sinuses instead of ejection through the nose.
What makes a sinus infection worse? ›
Seasonal allergies, cologne, perfume, smoke, and other airborne particulates can mess with your sinuses, especially when suffering from a sinus infection. Unfortunately, other than staying in a hermetically sealed room, there's not much you can do about some of these.
What happens if you leave a sinus infection untreated? ›What Happens if Sinusitis Isn't Treated? You'll have pain and discomfort until it starts to clear up. In rare cases, untreated sinusitis can lead to meningitis, a brain abscess, or an infection of the bone. Talk to your doctor about your concerns.
How can I tell a sinus infection from Covid? ›For instance, a runny nose can be a symptom of COVID-19. However, there are some symptoms unique to COVID-19. Gastrointestinal issues, fever, body aches and a new loss of taste or smell are not typical of allergies or a sinus infection.
When should I go to the doctor for a sinus infection? ›Symptoms of a sinus infection include ear pain, headaches, facial pain and tenderness, nasal discharge, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, fever, and fatigue. If these symptoms persist or become intolerable despite treatment, or if they improve only to return, it's time to seek medical assistance.
How do you tell if a sinus infection is viral or bacterial? ›If your sinus infection lasts for about a week, it's usually due to a virus. Bacterial sinus infections, on the other hand, can persist for some time. They usually last for 10 days or longer. While viral infections usually start to get better after a few days, bacterial infections tend to get worse over time.
Is Orange juice Good for sinus infection? ›Citrus Fruits
Vitamin C is a great way to build that immune system and help the body fight against all sorts of issues, namely issues of the sinuses.
Ginger and Turmeric: These spices have many anti-inflammatory properties that help open up congested nasal passages. The best ways to enjoy ginger and turmeric are by adding them to hot lemon water or by creating a refreshing tea from them.
Should I go to work with sinus infection? ›Sinus infections can be viral or bacterial. “Either way, it's best to stay home,” Wigmore says. Viral sinus infections are often contagious. If you have had symptoms longer than one week, or if you have severe facial pain, teeth/jaw pain, or fever, you may have a bacterial infection and should consult your doctor.
Can ibuprofen reduce sinus swelling? ›Yes. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and decongestants may help relieve facial pain and sinus congestion associated with acute sinusitis.
What pressure points drain sinuses? ›Acupresssure Point LI4: Located on your hand between the thumb and index finger, this pressure point can help relieve sinus congestion. Acupresssure Point LI 20: Located at the base of your nose, this pressure point can help relieve sinus pressure.
How do you know if a sinus infection is serious? ›
When there is excessive pain in your eyes, ears, head or throat, you likely have a severe sinus infection. And if you can't open your eyes or you feel dizzy, these are major warning signs that your sinusitis is at a dangerous level.
How long should you stay home with sinus infection? ›Those suffering from a sinus infection should stay cautious around others for at least three days after the last symptoms have subsided.
Does laying down make sinus pressure worse? ›As you lay down on your back or side, gravity helps your blood circulate easier to the head. An increased blood flow to the brain for eight or more hours at night can certainly lead to sinus congestion, and in some cases, sinus pain.
What foods cause sinus problems? ›Food to Avoid
Avoid dairy if you have had previous episodes of sinus infections. Also, try to avoid refined sugar as it is pro-inflammatory and increases the production of mucus. Other foods to avoid include tomatoes (contain histamines), chocolate, cheese, gluten, and fruits like bananas, which can cause congestion.
As we sleep, mucus doesn't drain as effectively. That makes the nose even more blocked. So, the best way to sleep with a blocked nose is to prop your head up on an extra pillow or two. Also, it's best to sleep on your side if you can as lying on your back could make things worse.
What is the best sleeping position for sinus drainage? ›The best sleeping position for sinus drainage problems and other sinus issues is to sleep with your head propped up. Sleeping with your head propped up will help gravity naturally drain your sinuses and reduce the chance of excessive blood flow that can develop sinus congestion.
What soup is good for sinus infection? ›Chicken soup
One older 2000 study found that chicken soup reduces inflammation associated with sinus congestion and colds.
- Drink fluids. Water or juice will help dilute mucous secretions and promote drainage. ...
- Moisten your sinus cavities. Drape a towel over your head as you breathe in the vapor from a bowl of hot water. ...
- Apply warm compresses to your face. ...
- Rinse your nasal passages. ...
- Rest. ...
- Sleep with your head elevated.
About 70 percent of the time, symptoms of acute bacterial sinus infections go away within two weeks without antibiotics. When sinusitis symptoms last seven to 10 days or more, it's a good idea to see a doctor to discuss treatment options.
Why does one nostril get clogged? ›"Increased blood flow causes congestion in one nostril for about 3 to 6 hours before switching to the other side. There is also increased congestion when one is lying down, which can be especially noticeable when the head is turned to one side," Jennifer Shu reports for CNN.
How is sinus infection diagnosed? ›
Your doctor will talk to you about your symptoms, and then they'll look inside your nose. They may start out with an otoscope, an instrument that helps doctors examine the ear and nose. Signs of swelling, congestion, and infection may be obvious, and you may learn right away that it's sinusitis.
How do you unclog one nostril? ›- Be gentle when you blow your nose. ...
- Aim to drink 6-8 glasses of water a day. ...
- Hold a warm flannel to your cheeks. ...
- Dial-up the humidity. ...
- Try a nasal rinse with warm salty water. ...
- Use menthol ointment or oil. ...
- Ask a pharmacist about treatment options.
- Rest. This will help your body fight infection and speed recovery.
- Drink fluids. Continue to drink plenty of fluids.
- Use a warm compress. ...
- Moisten your sinus cavities. ...
- Rinse your nasal passages.
As your body works hard to fight off the sinus infection, you'll feel more tired than usual. Fatigue can be also be caused by head pain, a lack of adequate sleep, and difficulty breathing due to sinusitis.
Can you clear a sinus infection without antibiotics? ›This may give you the idea that you need antibiotics, but most clear up without them. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses and aren't recommended within the first week of developing a cold. About 70% of sinus infections go away within two weeks without antibiotics.
Can I get rid of a sinus infection in 24 hours? ›Getting rid of a sinus infection in 24 hours is probably not going to happen. In fact, most sinus infections are caused by the common cold and will typically hang around for as long as the virus remains active.
What happens if you ignore a sinus infection? ›Left untreated, a sinus infection has the potential to spread to your meninges (the protective coverings around your brain and spinal cord), causing them to become inflamed — a condition called meningitis. Meningitis gives rise to the following signs and symptoms: Sudden, high-grade fever. Neck stiffness.
What foods should I avoid with sinus infection? ›Avoid dairy if you have had previous episodes of sinus infections. Also, try to avoid refined sugar as it is pro-inflammatory and increases the production of mucus. Other foods to avoid include tomatoes (contain histamines), chocolate, cheese, gluten, and fruits like bananas, which can cause congestion.
Is A sinus infection Contagious? ›Are sinus infections contagious? “Because many times sinus infections are caused by viruses, they can be contagious like other infections, such as colds,” Melinda said. “If you have a sinus infection, it's important to use good hygiene skills.
What is the best sleep position for sinus infection? ›The best sleeping position for sinus drainage problems and other sinus issues is to sleep with your head propped up. Sleeping with your head propped up will help gravity naturally drain your sinuses and reduce the chance of excessive blood flow that can develop sinus congestion.