WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

What is rhinosinusitis? Rhinosinusitis (RS) is inflammation in your nasal passages and sinuses. It commonly begins as a virus, often as a common cold. Viruses usually last 7 to 10 days and do not need treatment. When the virus does not get better on its own, you may have bacterial RS. This means that bacteria have begun to grow inside your sinuses. Acute RS lasts less than 4 weeks. Chronic RS lasts more than 12 weeks. Recurrent RS is when you have 4 or more episodes of RS in 1 year.

What are the signs and symptoms of rhinosinusitis? Your signs and symptoms may be worse when you lie on your back or try to sleep. You may have any of the following:

• Stuffy nose and reduced sense of smell
  
  
• Runny nose with thick yellow or green mucus
  
  
• Pressure or pain on your face or a headache
  
  
• Pain in your teeth or bad breath
  
  
• Ear pain or pressure
  
  
• Fever or cough
  
  
• Tiredness

How is rhinosinusitis diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will feel your sinuses and look in your eyes, nose, mouth, and ears. He will ask you about your symptoms and how long you have had them. Tell him if your symptoms have gotten better or worse since they began. A sample of the mucus from your nose may show what germ is causing your infection. If you have chronic RS, you may need imaging tests.

How is rhinosinusitis treated? Your symptoms usually go away on their own. You may need any of the following:

• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
  
  
• NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
  
  
• Nasal steroid sprays decrease inflammation in your nose and sinuses.
  
  
• Decongestants reduce swelling and drain mucus in the nose and sinuses. They may help you breathe easier.
  
  
• Antihistamines dry mucus in the nose and relieve sneezing.
  
  
• Antibiotics treat a bacterial infection and may be needed if your symptoms do not improve or they get worse.

How can I manage my symptoms?

• Rinse your sinuses. Use a sinus rinse device to rinse your nasal passages with a saline (salt water) solution. This will help thin the mucus in your nose and rinse away pollen and dirt. It will also help reduce swelling so you can breathe normally. Ask your healthcare provider how often to do this.
  
  
• Breathe in steam. Heat a bowl of water until you see steam. Lean over the bowl and make a tent over your head with a large towel. Breathe deeply for about 20 minutes. Be careful not to get too close to the steam or burn yourself. Do this 3 times a day. You can also breathe deeply when you take a hot shower.
  
  
• Sleep with your head elevated. Place an extra pillow under your head before you go to sleep to help your sinuses drain.
  
  
• Drink liquids as directed. Ask your healthcare provider how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. Liquids will thin the mucus in your nose and help it drain. Avoid drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine.
  
  
• Do not smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can make your symptoms worse. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

When should I seek immediate care?

• Your eye and eyelid are red, swollen, and painful.
  
  
• You cannot open your eye.
  
  
• You have double vision or you cannot see.
  
  
• Your eyeball bulges out or you cannot move your eye.
  
  
• You are more sleepy than normal, or you notice changes in your ability to think, move, or talk.
  
  
• You have a stiff neck, a fever, or a bad headache.
  
  
• You have swelling of your forehead or scalp.

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

• Your symptoms are worse or do not improve after 3 to 5 days of treatment.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.