Sinus problems, while common, can affect people in different ways. Some individuals are blessed in the respect that they have little to no sinus symptoms, while others are in constant battle with their sinuses. So if you find that you are in an ongoing struggle with your sinuses and have a difficult time breathing comfortably through your nose, know that you are not alone. However, there are many sinus myths around that can inhibit your ability to get better.
Despite the commonality of sinus trouble, many misconceptions are floating around. Unfortunately, misconceptions can steer patients away from receiving proper treatment. To learn more, check out some of the most common sinus myths.
An antibiotic is always needed when treating sinus symptoms
Taking antibiotics when there is no bacterial infection to treat can do more harm than good. Many think that their sinus problems are actually due to bacterial infections when the most common scenario is a viral infection. Viral infections do not require antibiotic treatment and typically resolve on their own. If you find that your symptoms last more than 7 to 10 days, see your doctor to check if an antibiotic is the appropriate course of action to take.
What you eat has nothing to do with your sinus health
Some people like to think that they can eat whatever they want, and it will have no negative effect on their body. While in reality, your body is an intricate machine that should have the best fuel possible, and the same rule applies when you want to have healthy sinuses. It’s true that your diet choices can affect the health of your sinuses, especially if you are eating food that your body is allergic or sensitive to. Also, foods that contain a high amount of refined sugar and high fructose corn syrup are linked to bacteria growth that can negatively affect your sinuses.
You must have a sinus infection if you are experiencing sinus symptoms
Sinus symptoms don’t always mean you have a sinus infection, as there is a difference between a sinus infection and chronic sinusitis. If you have a sinus infection or acute sinusitis, you will experience inflammation due to a viral or bacterial infection. But on the flip side, inflammation that continues for more than three months is more than likely from chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis doesn’t occur from an infection. Instead, it can be caused by a variety of conditions and is often associated with nasal polyps, allergies, or asthma.
The only treatment for chronic sinus problems is surgery
In many cases, surgery is one of the last options considered. While there are different types of sinus surgery methods that are effective, it is not always a necessary option. Other medical therapies are available to prevent or at least delay the need for surgery. Oral or topical medications, acupuncture, as well as allergy shots are some of the common forms of therapies that may help alleviate the symptoms of chronic sinus problems. It is essential that these treatment methods are utilized first before sinus surgery is considered.