While treatments for sinus infections aren't always necessary since the symptoms often go away on their own, as someone suffering from a sinus infection, chances are that you'll do or try anything to get relief. Thankfully, there are several sinus infection treatments you can try in an effort to ease your symptoms and to encourage your symptoms to clear up faster. Here are five quick and easy treatments Ryan P. Gallivan, MD at Northwest Sinus Center in Bend regularly recommends.

1. Humidifiers

Humidifiers may not treat your sinus infection directly, but they can make your condition much more bearable. Both cool and warm mist humidifiers are equally effective in moistening and opening up your nasal passages, allowing you to breathe again.

2. Saline Spray and Neti Pots

Flush out your nasal passages and any bacteria that may be hiding in them with either saline spray or a neti pot. If you use a neti pot, be sure to sterilize the pot and the water before use, however, to avoid introducing new bacteria into your sinuses.

3. Medications

Depending on the cause of your sinus infection, whether bacteria, viral or fungal, you may be able to take a medication to help fight the infection or ease your symptoms. Antibiotics are generally recommended for bacterial infections, while pain killers and nasal decongestants can help ease the symptoms of a viral infection.

4. An Appointment with Dr. Gallivan

If your condition isn't clearing up on its own and the three suggestions listed above aren't helping, it may be time to visit your Bend rhinologist for professional sinus infection treatment. One of the only 20 fellowship-trained rhinologists in the country, Dr. Gallivan has the professional knowledge you need to determine the cause of your suffering as well as the best course of action.

5. Surgery

While surgery is rarely recommending to treat a sinus infection, it is an option, particularly for those who suffer from frequent or particularly troublesome sinus infections. Speak to your doctor if you feel your condition is severe enough to warrant a surgical procedure.

While a minor sinus infection is usually nothing to worry about, here at Northwest Sinus Center, we want you to be as comfortable and symptom-free as possible. If you are one of the many Bend residents currently suffering from a sinus infection or who gets sinus infections frequently, call our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Gallivan for sinus infection treatment today.