There is an old myth that you need a prescription antibiotic to treat a sinus infection. Is this true? No! There are plenty of treatment options for sinus problems, and not all of them require a prescription from your doctor. So is over the counter sinus relief enough? The answer is not a simple one.
Every individual sinus infection, or case of “sinusitis,” is unique. This means each case calls for a unique treatment plan. Over the counter medicines are not created equal, and what might work seamlessly for one patient could cause more harm than good for another.
Overmedication
Our team commonly sees problems with overmedication. It is easy to walk down the pharmacy aisle, desperate for sinus pain and discomfort to go away, and grab whatever box or bottle promises to ease the symptoms. However, if you don’t know the actual, underlying cause of your sinus trouble, then over the counter medicines could simply just mask your problems without ever truly treating them.
As the symptoms of sinus infections can mirror those of other health problems, it is easy for someone to get a misdiagnosis and follow an ineffective treatment plan. These are just a few of the ailments commonly mistaken for sinusitis:
- Allergies
- Acid reflux
- Migraines
- Dental problems
Treating Sinus Problems
If you have sinus trouble or any other symptoms that are getting you down, talk to a doctor. A medical professional can help customize a treatment plan, which may include medicines like these:
- Pain relievers
- Decongestants
- Saline nasal spray
- Corticosteroids (nasal sprays, pills or shots to fight inflammation)
- Expectorants (medicines to help clear out excess mucus)
- Antibiotics, if needed
If you need help creating a plan of attack for your sinus symptoms, get in touch. We are here to listen and to help find the best solution and over the counter sinus relief for you.