Sinus infections are usually caused by viruses, but if your doctor thinks a bacterial infection is to blame, they may prescribe antibiotics. However, antibiotics only help with bacterial infections and wont help if your sinusitis is caused by viruses or other problems. Here are some other treatments that can help ease sinusitis symptoms:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help ease discomfort.

• Decongestants: OTC decongestant drops or sprays can help relieve stuffiness, but they should only be used for a few days because they may cause worse stuffiness, known as rebound congestion.

• Nasal saline rinses: Saline nose drops or sprays can help keep mucus thin and clear sinuses.

• Rest: Getting plenty of sleep and giving your body a chance to recover can help ease symptoms.

• Humidifiers: Using a humidifier in your bedroom at night can help relieve nighttime nasal blockages.

• Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses around the nose, cheeks, and eyes can help promote drainage of nasal secretions and ease general pain from sinus congestion.

• Antihistamines: For sinusitis caused by allergies, using allergy medicines like antihistamines might lessen allergy symptoms.

Its important to note that most sinus infections are caused by viruses, and antibiotics are not always necessary. Overusing antibiotics or using them to treat viral infections can lead to unnecessary side effects or antibiotic resistance, which may make future infections harder to treat. If your symptoms dont improve after 10 days, or if sinusitis happens often, contact your healthcare provider.