NW LA Times

As an estimated 35 million Americans suffer from sinusitis each year, Dr. Jeffrey Feinfield of Bella Vista ENT discourages patients from making avoidable mistakes in trying to clear up their sinus infections.

Sinus infections are the 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 sinus 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.

"Minimally invasive intervention is really getting to solve the patient’s problem and not overdoing unnecessary testing, antibiotics and medications," Feinfield told Golden State Today.

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 can 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.

To prevent sinus infections, it is recommended that 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. 

If you might be struggling with allergies or sinusitis, take this quiz to find out more.