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Try the following measures to help reduce congestion in your sinuses:
- Use a humidifier.
- Spray with nasal saline several times per day.
- Inhale steam 2 - 4 times per day (for example, sitting in the bathroom with the shower running).
- Drink plenty of fluids to thin the mucus.
- Apply a warm, moist wash cloth to your face several times a day.
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Be careful with over-the-counter spray nasal decongestants. They may help initially, but using them beyond 3 - 5 days can actually worsen nasal congestion.
Also, for sinus pain or pressure:
- Avoid temperature extremes, sudden changes in temperature, and bending forward with your head down.
- Try acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Avoid flying when you are congested.
If self-care measures are not working, your doctor will consider prescription medications, antibiotics, further testing, or referral to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays may be used to decrease swelling, especially if you have swollen structures (such as nasal polyps) or allergies. These include fluticasone (Flonase), mometasone (Nasonex), and triamcinolone (Nasacort AQ).
Antibiotics are used to cure the particular infection causing sinus inflammation. Common antibiotics include ampicillin, amoxacillin, trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim), Augmentin, cefuroxime, and cefprozil.
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