Why do sinuses get infected

Nasal polyps Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths on the lining of your nose or sinuses. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references AskMayoExpert. Chronic rhinosinusitis. Mayo Clinic; Bennett JE, et al.

Philadelphia, Pa. Accessed April 30, Peters AT, et al. Diagnosis and management of rhinosinusitis: A practice parameter update. Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Journal. Wyler B, et al. Bennett JE, et al. Philadelphia, Pa. Accessed April 30, Accessed March 9, Sinus infection sinusitis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Wyler B, et al. Sinusitis update. Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America. Ferri FF. Reye's syndrome. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor Accessed May 12, Natural Medicines.

European elder. You can buy nasal sprays without a prescription, but they should not be used for more than 1 week. If you have sinusitis, a GP may be able to recommend other medicines to help with your symptoms, such as:. You might need to take steroid nasal sprays or drops for a few months. They sometimes cause irritation, sore throats or nosebleeds.

Surgery to treat chronic sinusitis is called functional endoscopic sinus surgery FESS. FESS is carried out under general anaesthetic where you're asleep. Page last reviewed: 02 February Next review due: 02 February Good hygiene, keeping your sinuses moist and clear, and treating symptoms immediately can help shorten the course of the infection.

Many treatments and procedures exist for both acute and chronic cases. Even if you experience multiple acute episodes or chronic sinusitis, seeing a doctor or specialist can greatly improve your outlook after these infections. Learn more about the ways you can treat a stuffy nose, or nasal congestion, at home, including tips on decongestants, humidifiers, and steam remedies.

Steam inhalers are used as personal saunas for skin care or supporting respiratory health. We created a list of steam inhalers to suit your needs. You may have heard that you can sweat out a cold, but is this an effective remedy? Learn more here. Typically, postnasal drip can be alleviated at home. Try these remedies and OTC products to relieve your symptoms. Salt water gargles are touted as an effective and easy home remedy for a sore throat.

We explain why, plus additional benefits. Can apple cider vinegar be used for colds? We explain the benefits of apple cider vinegar, and what the science says about it treating the common cold. What does research say about whether you should exercise with a cold? Learn what you should and shouldn't do, and how you can help yourself recover…. When you have a cold, you may have a hard time sleeping well due to congestion, coughing, or a runny nose. Some medications may help you sleep better….

A healthy diet is key to flu prevention and a working immune system. Check out these easy-to-make drinks that contain the essential nutrients. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Sinus Infection Symptoms. Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M. Sinusitis Medically known as rhinosinusitis, a sinus infection occurs when your nasal cavities become infected, swollen, and inflamed.

Chronic vs. Pain in your sinuses. Nasal discharge. Nasal congestion. Sinus headaches. Throat irritation and cough. Sore throat and hoarse voice.