Sinus medications for acute viral sinusitis help reduce symptoms of sinus and nose inflammation. A little nasal discomfort and sinus pain are normal from time to time, usually brought on by a common cold.Â
A cold may cause mild inflammation of the nasal cavity and bacterial buildups and can generally be treated with over-the-counter cold and flu medication.Â
However, when sinus pain and pressure persist or frequently recur, it may indicate a sinus infection. At Kimball Health Services, our primary care providers or our board-certified ENT surgeon, Dr. William O. Dickey, prescribe sinus medications after a comprehensive diagnosis of your condition. Â
Sinus medications reduce symptoms caused by inflammation of nasal membranes and sinusitis. These medications are prescribed to help relieve common symptoms of sinus pain and pressure, allergy problems, and nasal congestion.Â
Sinus medications may help in:Â
Dr. Dickey or our primary care providers recommend sinus medications based on your specific symptoms and medical history to provide relief from sinusitis or sinus congestion and promote faster recovery.Â
Saline nasal sprays are simple saltwater sprays that help moisturize nasal passages and flush out mucus and allergens. These sprays can be used without the risk of dependency and are ideal for nasal issues.Â
The added moisture produced by the saline nasal spray reduces thick secretions and assists in removing infectious agents.Â
Decongestant nasal sprays clear nasal passages almost immediately and help treat the initial stages of a common cold or viral infection. These sprays are safe to use but should only be utilized for around 3 days at a time because prolonged use may lead to dependence or rebound congestion.Â
Decongestant nasal sprays are available by prescription and as over-the-counter medications.Â
Decongestant medications may help relieve nasal swelling, pressure, and congestion but do not treat the cause of the inflammation.Â
These medications reduce blood flow to the nasal membranes, leading to:
Oral decongestants do not relieve drippy noses. These medications are given individually or in combination with a pain reliever or an antihistamine.
Antihistamines are taken when allergies contribute to sinus congestion. These medications help by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions.Â
Antihistamine medications may be used to address allergic symptoms of itching, sneezing, and nasal congestion.Â
Decongestant medications are combined with pain relievers to reduce the number of pills. This type of medication combination helps relieve both sinus and cold/flu symptoms, along with sinus pain and headaches associated with sinusitis.
Antihistamines and decongestants are combined to relieve symptoms of congestion and drainage. These medications help reduce the side effects of both medicines. The combined medication can relieve congestion and a runny nose.
Nasal corticosteroids help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, which can relieve congestion and improve breathing. They are available as nasal sprays and medications.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve sinus pain and headaches associated with sinusitis.
Dr. Dickey or our primary care providers may prescribe sinus medication for acute bacterial sinusitis based on factors such as:
At Kimball Health Services, Dr. Dickey and our primary care providers perform a thorough diagnosis of your sinus condition before prescribing medications to help relieve symptoms. Our team focuses on addressing sinus issues promptly to enhance your overall well-being.Â
As one of the top critical access hospitals in the nation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.Â
In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For appointments, call us at 308-235-1966 or request an appointment online. We're here for you whenever you need us.Â
