Lifestyle Changes to Manage Sinusitis
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General Guidelines for Managing Sinusitis
Stop Smoking
Smoking increases your risk of sinusitis and probably also hampers your ability to heal from the infection. The sooner you stop smoking, the better off you’ll be. Talk to your doctor about programs and medications that may help you stop smoking .
Drink More Water
Drinking more water might help keep your nasal secretions thinner, and therefore easier to blow out. While no evidence has shown that fluid intake changes the outcome of sinus infections, it may be desirable for most people whose fluid intake is not medically restricted to drink about eight, 8-ounce glasses of water each day. It is also reasonable to increase the consumption of fluids in hot weather or following intense exercise.
Avoid Flying
If possible, avoid flying when you are congested. Changes in air pressure may make your condition worse.
References:
Acute sinusitis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php . Updated September 2008. Accessed September 12, 2008.
Carson-DeWitt R. Sinusitis. EBSCO Health Library website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/thisTopic.php?marketID=15topicID=81 . Updated November 2007. Accessed September 12, 2008.
Chronic sinusitis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php . Updated September 2008. Accessed September 12, 2008.
Sinusitis. American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery website. Available at: http://www.entnet.org/ . Accessed September 12, 2008.
Last reviewed July 2008 by Elie Edmond Rebeiz, MD, FACS
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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