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With a cold, inflammation of the sinuses lasts one to two weeks, but is usually not severe. In about 2% of all cases, infected inflammation of the sinuses, or acute sinusitis, may follow a cold. This occurs when swollen sinus passages trap bacteria and bacteria begin to multiply. If infection persists over several months or recurs frequently over time, the condition is referred to as chronic sinusitis.

There are a number of over-the-counter medications available for the treatment of sinusitis symptoms, as well as prescription medications that are available through your ENT physician (otolaryngologist).

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication
Before visiting a physician, many sinusitis sufferers try over-the-counter, non-prescription medications to treat symptoms. These medications help relieve symptoms, but do little to affect the underlying source of sinusitis: blocked sinus drainage due to infection and/or anatomical abnormalities.
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Prescription Medication
Most patients with a clinical diagnosis of acute sinusitis caused by a bacterial infection usually improve without antibiotic treatment. Consequently, the ENT specialist will initially prescribe pain-relievers, fever reducers, and decongestants as the initial course of treatment. If your symptoms persist, however, one of the treatment options below may be recommended.

• Antibiotics
• Leukotrinenes
• Mucolytics
• Reflux Medications
• Steroids

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Version 2.0 This web page was first published on June 05, 2002, and was last updated on June 14, 2006.
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