8 Things Ent Doctors Do When They Have a Sinus Infection

8 Things ENT Doctors Do When They Have a Sinus Infection

Few things are as frustrating as a sinus infection. One day you have what feels like a common cold, and the next you're dealing with nasal congestion, facial pressure, thick mucus, headaches, and postnasal drip. These symptoms can make it difficult to breathe, sleep, and focus on everyday activities.

Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, affect millions of Americans each year. While many people assume they need antibiotics right away, that's often not the case. Most cases of acute sinusitis are caused by viruses and improve on their own with supportive care. Bacterial sinus infections are less common and may require different treatment depending on your symptoms and how long they've lasted.

So, how do ENT doctors treat a sinus infection when they get one themselves?

We asked several ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists to share the sinus infection remedies they rely on for reduced inflammation, healing, and congestion relief. While every patient is different, these expert-backed strategies can help you understand how to treat a sinus infection at home—and when it's time to seek medical care.

What Causes a Sinus Infection?

Your sinuses are air-filled spaces located behind your forehead, cheeks, and eyes. Normally, mucus drains freely through small openings into your nasal passages. When these openings become blocked, mucus can build up, creating pressure and allowing germs to grow.

Common causes of sinus infections include:

• Viral upper respiratory infections (the common cold)
• Allergies
• Bacterial infections
• Nasal polyps
• A deviated septum
• Environmental irritants like smoke or pollution

Typical sinus infection symptoms include:

• Nasal congestion
• Thick yellow or green mucus
• Facial pain or pressure
• Headache
• Postnasal drip
• Reduced sense of smell
• Ear pressure
• Cough, especially at night

Why ENT Doctors Focus on Drainage and Inflammation

One of the biggest misconceptions about sinus infection treatment is that antibiotics are always the answer.

In reality, most acute sinus infections are viral, meaning antibiotics won't help. Instead, ENT specialists focus on improving sinus drainage, reducing swelling inside the nose, and helping the body's natural healing process.

When mucus drains properly, pressure decreases, breathing becomes easier, and symptoms often begin to improve. That's why many of the following sinus infection home remedies emphasize hydration, moisture, saline rinses, and reducing inflammation before considering antibiotics.

1. "I Pop a Decongestant"

"When I feel the early signs of a sinus infection, I do what I can to facilitate drainage and allow it to pass on its own," says Moshe Ephrat, MD, FACS. "It's important your sinuses are allowed to drain, as the buildup of mucous can eventually become infected with bacteria."

He accomplishes this with over-the-counter medication.

"I prefer Mucinex D—which is a mucolytic and decongestant that lasts 12 hours—and take it daily until symptoms resolve."

Dr. Ephrat also recommends taking it in the morning so it's less likely to interfere with sleep.

How Decongestants Help

Decongestants work by reducing swelling inside the nasal passages, allowing mucus to drain more easily. Mucolytics help thin thick mucus so it can move through the sinuses more effectively.

These medications are not appropriate for everyone. People with certain heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or other medical concerns should consult their healthcare provider before using oral decongestants. Always follow the directions on the product label.

2. "I Use a Sinus Rinse"

Pediatric ENT Nicole Aaronson, MD, says saline irrigation is one of the first things she reaches for.

"Sinus rinses help by manually flushing debris, irritants, mucous, and bacteria out of the nose," she says. "I prefer the squeeze-bottle-style to the neti pot, but it's a matter of personal comfort."

Many people notice improved breathing and reduced congestion almost immediately after a saline rinse because it physically removes mucus and allergens from the nasal passages.

Saline Nasal Rinse Safety Tips

To safely perform a sinus rinse:

• Always use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water that has cooled
• Never use untreated tap water
• Clean and air-dry your rinse bottle after every use
• Replace bottles regularly according to manufacturer recommendations
• Squeeze gently to avoid forcing water into the ears
• Follow all package instructions carefully

Using proper technique helps maximize benefits while reducing the risk of irritation or infection.

3. "I Stay Hydrated"

Dr. Aaronson also emphasizes the importance of drinking plenty of fluids.

"Hydrating helps to thin out the viscosity of mucous, making it easier to expel from your nose and sinuses," she says. "The steam from hot liquids is particularly helpful for thinning out nasal secretions and soothing your throat."

If her throat becomes irritated from coughing or postnasal drip, she adds honey to her tea.

"There's also some data on the antibacterial properties of medical-grade manuka honey improving infections and speeding healing," she says.

Why Fluids Matter

Hydration helps keep mucus from becoming overly thick and sticky. Warm beverages may also provide temporary relief by soothing irritated tissues and increasing moisture in the nasal passages.

Water should remain your primary source of hydration. Limiting alcohol and excessive caffeine may also help prevent dehydration while you're recovering.

4. "I Take an Anti-Inflammatory"

"During the first week of a sinus infection, I'll take an anti-inflammatory medication, such as Advil Cold & Sinus, to both decrease inflammation and reduce swelling," says Ameet R. Kamat, MD, director of sinus and skull base surgery. "This allows me to breathe easier and improves my ability to clear my sinuses."

Reducing inflammation can relieve pressure and improve airflow, particularly during the early stages of a sinus infection.

Always follow package instructions when using over-the-counter medications and ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about potential interactions if you take other medications or have chronic health conditions.

5. "I Turn to Steam"

Dr. Kamat also relies on humidity.

He keeps a humidifier in his bedroom and takes steamy showers to "improve nasal lining hydration and decrease the viscosity of the mucous, so my body's better able to clear the infected material and drain my sinuses."

The result is improved airflow and easier breathing.

Why Moisture Helps Sinus Drainage

Dry air can worsen irritation inside the nose and sinuses. Adding moisture helps thin mucus, making it easier for the body to clear naturally.

Many people find relief by:

• Taking warm showers
• Using a clean humidifier
• Inhaling steam carefully from warm water
• Staying well hydrated throughout the day

Humidifiers should be cleaned regularly to prevent mold or bacterial growth.

6. "I Keep Saline Spray on Standby"

Saline sprays provide another easy way to keep nasal passages moist throughout the day.

"I like to use Euka's Infused Cold & Allergy Saline Spray throughout the day," says Beverly Hills ENT Shawn Nasseri, MD. "It's infused with essential oils, including eucalyptus, has glycerin for an extra boost of moisture, and is alkaline for greater comfort."

Unlike medicated nasal sprays, saline sprays generally do not cause rebound congestion and can be used more frequently.

How to Use a Saline Spray Correctly

• Point the nozzle toward the back of the nostril rather than straight upward
• Close the opposite nostril
• Spray gently while breathing in slightly
• Follow the product's instructions regarding frequency

7. "I Use the Quadrupedal Position"

"If my facial pain or pressure is intense, I sometimes put my head towards the floor while on my hands and knees," Dr. Kamat says.

This position, known as the quadrupedal position, temporarily changes how gravity affects sinus drainage.

"The position of the cheek sinus opening is high along the nasal wall and known to be poor for natural or passive drainage due to gravity," he explains. "In this position, the opening is better able to drain and has been shown to reduce the duration of a sinus infection."

While this technique won't cure a sinus infection, some patients find it helps relieve pressure and encourages drainage.

8. "I Keep Tabs on My Symptoms"

Jonathan Overdevest, MD, assistant professor of rhinology and skull base surgery, says one of the most important parts of managing a sinus infection is knowing when symptoms require additional medical care.

"We all want to find ways to minimize the impact of our symptoms and introduce treatments that will expedite our recovery," he says. "The challenge lies in knowing what symptoms need higher level care (antibiotics, systemic steroids, expert evaluation) and those that will improve on their own."

He notes that the timeline of your symptoms can provide important clues.

"In general, any perceived sinus infection that's accompanied by severe symptoms—persistently high fever, chills, changes in vision, unrelenting severe headache or outward alteration of appearance—would require more urgent physical evaluation," he says.

For milder cases, he recommends monitoring symptoms that last longer than seven to ten days or initially improve before worsening again.

"I personally remind myself of this timeframe when faced with sinus symptoms in an effort to avoid overexposure to antibiotics," Dr. Overdevest says. "While they're beneficial in certain scenarios, they'll have no effect on viral causes of illness, which are generally those that have symptoms lasting less than seven to ten days."

When to See an ENT for a Sinus Infection

Schedule an evaluation if you experience:

• Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days without improvement
• Symptoms that improve before becoming worse again
• Persistent high fever
• Severe facial pain or swelling
• Vision changes
• Severe headache
• Multiple sinus infections each year
• Symptoms that continue to recur despite sinusitis treatment

What Happens During an ENT Visit for a Sinus Infection?

If your symptoms persist or frequently return, an ENT specialist can perform a more comprehensive evaluation.

Depending on your symptoms, this may include:

• Reviewing your medical history and symptom pattern
• Examining your nose and sinuses
• Performing nasal endoscopy to look for inflammation, polyps, or structural issues
• Discussing allergy testing if allergies may be contributing
• Ordering imaging studies when chronic or complex sinus disease is suspected

The goal is to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

When Sinus Infections Keep Coming Back

Repeated sinus infections may indicate a more complex issue than a temporary viral illness.

Recurring sinus infections, or chronic sinusitis, can be associated with:

• Seasonal or environmental allergies
• Nasal polyps
• A deviated septum
• Chronic inflammation
• Asthma
• Immune system disorders

Identifying these contributing factors can help reduce future infections and improve long-term sinus health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a sinus infection go away without antibiotics?

Yes. Most acute sinus infections are caused by viruses and improve with supportive care, rest, hydration, and time. Antibiotics are generally reserved for suspected bacterial infections.

How long does a sinus infection usually last?

Many viral sinus infections begin improving within 7 to 10 days. Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days or worsening after initial improvement should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

What's the difference between acute and chronic sinusitis?

Acute sinusitis typically lasts less than four weeks. Chronic sinusitis involves inflammation and symptoms that continue for 12 weeks or longer despite treatment.

Find Expert Sinus Care

Although many sinus infections improve with supportive care at home, persistent or recurring symptoms deserve expert evaluation. The specialists at ENT & Allergy Associates diagnose and treat both acute and chronic sinus conditions using personalized treatment plans that may include medication, allergy management, office-based procedures, or advanced surgical care when appropriate.

If you're experiencing ongoing sinus problems, schedule an appointment online at one of our locations in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Texas to receive expert ENT care.