Thursday, March 28, 2024

Alternatives To Antibiotics For Sinus Infection

Infrared Light Therapy As An Alternative Treatment For Sinusitis Or Sinus Infection

Alternative Medicine Herbal Remedies : How to Cure a Sinus Infection

Infrared energy penetrates into the body up to several inches and heats it from the inside. The heat and the lamps of various frequencies are used for improving oxygenation, circulation and hydration. This disables all the micro organisms that cause this disease. The frequency of light that is emitted from these infrared lamps has proven to be quite beneficial for treating sinusitis or sinus infection.

Can You Take A Z Pack For A Cold

Doctors may recommend using the Z pack occasionally, and they may explain some things to consider before using it. Prevention may be the best tool against the common cold.

In this article, we discuss whether or not the Z pack is safe to use, its impact on antibiotic resistance, and how to prevent the common cold.

Getting Rid Of A Sinus Infection Without Antibiotics

How can I get rid of a sinus infection without antibiotics? Here are a few non-antibiotic treatment options you might consider:

  • Over the Counter Remedies: Certain OTC medications can relieve the symptoms, which in turn helps your sinuses to heal. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful in managing symptoms during your recovery time. Some people also find it beneficial to use antihistamine medications to reduce congestion and post-nasal drip.
  • Sinus Rinses: If you are experiencing nasal congestion, it can be helpful to clear the sinuses. Not only does this treatment reduce your symptoms, but it changes the sinus environment to reduce the risk of infection development. Sinus rinses can be done with OTC saline solutions or prescription products. Or, you can try an at-home treatment using a neti pot and sterile water.
  • Herbal Remedies: Aromatherapy or herbal tea can be another solution to reduce your symptoms of a sinus infection. Some patients find it soothing to smell eucalyptus or peppermint, which helps to clear the upper respiratory tract. Try adding a few drops of essential oil into your humidifier to spread the scent in the air.
  • If you find that these at-home sinus infections dont work, then it might be time to talk to a doctor for medical treatment.

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    Using Food As The Best Prevention

    It should go without saying, but one of the ways to prevent or heal infection is through healthy eating. Read 16 ways to adopt a real food diet here.

    For starters, you definitely want to avoid processed foods and sugar as well as conventional, pasteurized dairy especially during an acute bout of sinusitis.

    Eat plenty of fat, homemade broth, and fermented foods to support your recovery. You can learn more about immune boosting foods here.

    Misconceptions And Warnings On Infrared Light Therapy:

    POWERFUL NATURAL ANTIBIOTIC THAT KILLS ALL INFECTIONS IN THE BODY ...

    Be aware to stay away from the false claims that are made by the manufacturers on such products. While there are many who will claim of removing harmful toxins from the body, does not have the capability to get rid of toxins. While infrared treatment has proven to be effective, it only eliminates the bacterial and fungal infections from the body.

    It is always advisable to speak with the doctor prior to using any lasers that are associated with infrared light therapy. As lasers are stronger than LEDs, they have a tendency to damage the tissues. LEDs show lower damage risks as their heat output is lower and provide enough energy to effectively eliminate the bacteria from the body. Infrared light therapy can affect people with severe health conditions and heart failure adversely.

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    How Does Cipro Work

    Cipro is an antibiotic in the class of fluoroquinolones. This type of antibiotic is bactericidal. This means that it directly kills bacteria. It does this by blocking enzymes that are needed for bacteria survival.

    Cipro is a broad-spectrum antibiotic. This means it works against many different types of bacteria. However, many bacteria have grown to be resistant to Cipro. Resistant bacteria can no longer be treated with a certain drug.

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    Which Medications Open The Sinuses Will Antibiotics Cure Sinus Infections

    Medications that Cure Sinus Infections

    The goal in treating sinus infections is to eliminate bacteria from the sinus cavities with antibiotics. This helps prevent complications, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk of chronic sinusitis.

    • In acute, uncomplicated sinus infections, a synthetic penicillin, for example, amoxicillin , which is prescribed to most people to cure acute sinus infections. Amoxicilin is effective against the ususal causes of sinus infections, and is inexpensive. The most common side effects of amoxicillin include allergic reactions and an upset stomach.
    • People allergic to penicillin can take a sulfur-containing antibiotic called trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole or TMP/SMX . Sulfa drugs are not recommended for people who are allergic to sulfur.
    • People who have several episodes, or partially treated acute sinusitis or those who have chronic sinusitis may become resistant to amoxicillin and TMP/SMX. Synthetic penicillins and cephalosporins such as amoxicillin/clavulanate , cefuroxime , and loracarbef can cure most sinus infections.
    • Eventually, overuse of these broad-spectrum antibiotics may lead to organisms evolving that can resist even the most potent antibiotics available. Simpler antibiotics, for example, amoxicillin, should be used first and taken for the entire duration .

    Medications to Keep the Sinuses Open

    OTC Steroid Nasal Sprays

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    Natural Antibiotic Alternative #15cinnamon

    Cinnamon is one natural antibiotic we should always have on hand, particularly when traveling and at an increased potential of contracting bacterial infections:

    The antibacterial effects of cinnamon bark oil make it one of the best options when a person encounters violent bacterial infections of the intestinal tract, especially while traveling in unfamiliar territory! .

    The Herbal Drugstore claims that the cinnamon spice is antifungal and inhibits fungi that commonly infect the skin. It is also a key ingredient in natural cough syrup.

    Use cinnamon bark oil and cinnamon leaf oil as a powerful anti-infectious blend. Cinnamon is also helpful to reduce or prevent intestinal issues.

    Medical Vs Home Remedies

    Treatment for sinus infections

    At the onset of sinusitis symptoms, some of us are too swift to turn to treatment via antibiotics. But, the infection and symptoms may go away by attempting to first use natural remedies. In fact, antibiotics are greatly overprescribed and given to between 70-80% of acute and chronic sinusitis patients. While they can certainly be a quick fix in many instances, medical research shows that antibiotics are often an ineffective treatment regime for sinus sufferers. Whether your sinus infection is diagnosed as acute or chronic, understanding the cause of sinus inflammation is the key to deciding which form of treatment is best. Many people suffer from sinusitis as a result of outdoor or indoor allergies to mold, pollen or dog dander. At the initial onset of infection, natural remedies may be preferable to antibiotics or other medication. Natural remedies can be used in tandem as well with over-the-counter medications such as decongestants. Dr. Bennett recommends speaking to your doctor to determine the underlying cause of your sinus infection and reminds patients that combining both home and medical treatments is often the best solution to breathing easier.

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    What Do You Think

    Have you ever used any of these natural antibiotic alternatives to treat bacterial infections? Are there other plants you prefer to use instead? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!

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    This is an updated version of an article that was originally published on March 29, 2017.

    The Grow Network is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for our team to earn fees for recommending our favorite products! We may earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you, should you purchase an item after clicking one of our links. Thanks for supporting TGN!

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    References:

    American Family Physician. Health Effects of Garlic. Accessed Marcy 24, 2017. .

    Bowden, Ph.D., C.N.S., Jonny. The Most Effective Natural Cures on Earth: The Surprising, Unbiased Truth about What Treatments Work and Why. Fair Winds Press, 2008.

    Buhner, Stephen Harrod. Herbal Antivirals: Natural Remedies for Emerging & Resistant Viral Infections. Massachusetts: Storey Publishing, 2013.

    Cherry, Robin. Garlic: An Edible Biography. Boston: Roost Books, 2014.

    Coconut Oil. Coconut Oil Offers Hope for Antibiotic-Resistant Germs. Accessed on March 24, 2017. .

    Murray, N.D., Michael T. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D. The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. 3rd Edition. New York: Atria, 2012.

    Important Factors To Keep In Mind

    • Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeinated drinks while you are on prescribed antibiotics or any sort of medicine, as alcohol intake reduces its effectiveness which makes the entire course useless.
    • While other medicines are available over-the-counter, it is much better to ask your doctor first if you have certain allergies or condition. This is to avoid unpleasant reactions because a medicines effectiveness also depends on the individuals health.
    • For a maximum result, never miss your dose on a given time. Make sure you check the labels and that you fully understand the instructions, particularly on the amount of dose that you are supposed to take.
    • If you suddenly feel that theres something wrong in your body after taking your meds, observe how it affects you. If you show severe symptoms that you are not familiar with, do not hesitate to consult your doctor.
    • Some antibiotics or medicines are not to be taken by pregnant women doctors usually recommend a certain brand for these kinds of patients.
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    For mild cases of ear infection, doctors often recommend watching and waiting before starting use of antibiotics, as many cases will go away on their own. Consult your childs pediatrician before giving any over-the-counter medications to your child.

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    Try Quercetin A Powerful Herb Youve Likely Never Heard Of

    Quercetin is a natural plant component found in everything from onions and apples to green tea and red wine. Like many plant ingredients, it is an antioxidant. For sinus problems, quercetin has also been found to stabilize the cells in the body that release histamine the chemical that stimulates mucus secretion in the sinuses.

    The Alternative Medicine Review article recommends quercetin as helpful for sinusitis, suggesting a typical oral dose of 400 to 500 mg taken three times per day.

    How Do You Prevent Ear Infections

    Video: Miracle Breakthrough for Allergies, Sinusitis, &  Tinnitus ...

    You may be able to prevent ear some ear infections if you:

    • Use earplugs when swimming or diving
    • Dry ears thoroughly after swimming
    • Never use cotton swabs inside the ear canal
    • Wash hands properly to prevent the spread of viruses
    • Use soap and warm water and wash for at least 20 seconds
  • Do not smoke and avoid secondhand smoke
  • Get vaccinated regularly as your doctor recommends
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    Antibiotics: Why A Prescription Should Give You Pause

    Theres no doubt that prescription antibiotics have their purpose. In fact, theyve even saved lives. But it should come as no surprise that they also carry risks, especially given the fact that theyve been so readily prescribed in recent decades.

    For example, did you know that up to 20 percent of all patients who take prescription antibiotics experience adverse side effects?

    These can range from pretty mild allergic reactions to extreme gastrointestinal issues, such as C. difficile, a bacterium that often causes symptoms such as diarrhea or even life-threatening inflammation of the colon.

    Then theres the issue of emerging antibiotic resistance, which is being more and more common. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, antibiotic resistance is one of the greatest threats to global health today.

    Why? Well, many of our most concerning infections such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, salmonella poisoning, and more are becoming harder to treat since antibiotic misuse has caused the antibiotics to become less effective.

    Fortunately, this isnt a situation where we have no other options. There are actually many plant-based sources in nature that have strong anti-microbial properties.

    In fact, a friend of mine used to get regular sinus infections each spring and fall due to severe seasonal allergies. Once she started taking oil of oregano at the first sign of allergy symptoms, she was able to avoid doctors office visits and antibiotics altogether for this reason.

    Causes Of Chronic Utis

    A whole slew of things can cause chronic UTIs, but these are some of the biggest causes.

    Basic anatomy in itself may be the single biggest risk factor for UTIs, urologist Elodi Dielubanza, M.D., assistant professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School and associate surgeon at Brigham and Womens Hospital, tells SELF.

    The reason is simple: The bacteria E. coli, which causes the majority of UTIs, is naturally present in your GI tract , but it can cause an infection if it gets to your urinary tract. The genital anatomy of someone with a vagina is conveniently set up in a way that makes this trip very quick and easy for that bacteria. Basically, the distance between the anus and the urethra is extremely short , as is the length of the urethra, which basically acts as a ladder that E. coli can climb up into the bladder, Dr. Dielubanza says. In comparison, people with penises tend to have a greater distance between their anus and their urethra, which makes these infections less likely .

    Being sexually active is a UTI risk factor, the Mayo Clinic explains.

    Because UTIs are sometimes thought of being a problem for young people, older people may be surprised to find they start getting more UTIs after they go through menopause, Dr. Vasavada says. This is thanks to a postmenopausal decline in estrogen. This estrogen deficiency alters the urinary tract in a way that can increase the risk of UTIs, according to the Mayo Clinic.

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    Drinking Liquids Help Ease Sinus Pain And Loosens Congestion

    Staying hydrated keeps your sinuses moist so you feel better, and it also decreases the thickness of sinus mucus so it flows out more easily, Del Signore says.

    Everyone is guilty of not drinking enough water, he says, recommending people get from six to eight 8-ounces glasses every day.

    Steer clear of too many caffeinated or alcoholic drinks, which can cause dehydration.

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    What Is The Strongest Antibiotic For Bacterial Infection

    Herbal Remedies for Sinus Infections

    The strongest antibiotic for a bacterial infection depends on the infection being treated. Antibiotics should only be used for infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Using an antibiotic that doesnt target the bacteria causing the infection can lead to antibiotic resistance. Penicillins, cephalosporins, and fluoroquinolones are examples of effective antibiotics when used properly.

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    Natural Remedies For Sinus Infections Alternatives To Antibiotics

    I get questions nearly every week about natural remedies for sinus infections. Sinusitis can be downright miserable your whole head throbbing with pain, congestion, plus a raw nose from constant blowing. I see folks in my office all the time in search of ways to treat sinus infections without antibiotics, and thankfully there are some super effective natural remedies for sinus infections that will effectively treat and prevent this condition.

    Many folks run to their doctor for antibiotics when a sinus infection strikes, and 20% of adult antibiotic prescriptions are being written for sinusitis. A recent study, however, shows that a 10-day course of amoxicillin compared with placebo did not reduce symptoms. It is estimated that at least 90% of sinus infections are actually caused by viruses, which are completely unaffected by antibiotics.

    Not only do they often not work, but antibiotics wipe out both the harmful and beneficial bacteria throughout the body. Even if they do work, frequent use reduces their effectiveness, and side effects from antibiotic can include digestive upset including diarrhea, cramping, and indigestion, yeast infections, allergic reactions and more.

    Luckily there are safe and effective natural remedies for sinus infections that will end your suffering.

    Natural Antibiotic Alternative #4echinacea

    Echinacea has a particular scent that instantly opens up your airways. Thats how you know it is effective for colds, sinus infections, strep-throat and other respiratory issues.

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    The purple coneflower is pretty to grow in your garden and can be made into a tea, extract, juice, powder, or cream for treating a number of infections.

    There have been more than 300 scientific investigations on the immune-enhancing effects of Echinaceaone of the most popular herbs in the treatment of the common cold .

    Paired with goldenseal, Echinacea helps knock out strep throat. It has also been used to treat a range of problems from skin wounds to dizziness .

    The Herbal Drugstore lists treating Lyme disease and vaginalinfections among its uses.

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    Treatments For Sinus Infections Other Than Antibiotics

    #1: Saline Nasal Wash

    Saline nasal wash can be a great way to thin out the mucous in the sinuses enough to clear out the blockage. I recommend starting this early on in the course of the illness to prevent the infection from worsening.

    You can even make this at home using 2 cups of water and a 1/2 teaspoon of salt. I would add a 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of baking soda to prevent burning that can occur with use. There are also plenty of over the counter saline nasal sprays that you can purchase. You can use this 4-6 times per day.

    #2: Vaporizer

    Vaporizers are great because they can also thin out the mucous and make you feel a lot better. An easy home remedy, steam is probably the best way to use this treatment. Beware if you are an asthmatic as the steam could cause worsening of the asthma symptoms.

    #3: Steroid Nasal Spray

    Steroid nasal sprays such as Flonase have been my go to remedy recently and the great news is that they are now over the counter. The general recommendation is to use 1-2 sprays per nostril daily.

    But I have found great relief using 2 sprays in each nostril twice daily. At these higher doses it is important to remember that you should use this short term, no more than 5-7 days.

    These medications can significantly reduce inflammation allowing the congestion blockage to clear and significantly alleviate symptoms.

    #4: Decongestants
    #5: Guaifenesin

    Guaifenesin such as Mucinex can certainly break up the mucous, allowing the congestion to clear more quickly.

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