Chronic nasal infection generally occurs as a byproduct of another illness. Treatments will be targeted to the underlying condition as well as to the infection itself. Bacterial infections are typically treated using oral antibiotics or an antibiotic nasal spray. Viral infections may be treated by using medications aimed at getting rid of symptoms. Most nasal infections eventually heal on their own unless one’s immune system is impaired.
Many chronic nasal infections occur due to continuous illness related to the sinuses. Those who get frequent colds or who have allergies are at a higher risk. Nasal infections are secondary illnesses caused by a primary infection or irritant. When nasal symptoms are long lasting or recurrent, it is normally because the primary irritant or illness fails to heal. Those who have frequent infections or illnesses of any kind should consult a physician because they may have compromised immune function.
The most common treatments for chronic nasal infection are antibiotics and pain medication. The type of drug used will depend on the cause of infection and how severe it has become. Over the counter pain medication is often sufficient for pain and pressure, but a doctor must prescribe antibiotic treatments.
To help alleviate some of the symptoms of chronic nasal infection naturally, saline sprays and steam may help loosen congestion and reduce inflammation. Some over the counter medication can also be used to get rid of mucus buildup. This will not cure the infection but will help make it more bearable until it heals.
Once symptoms have been taken care of and an antibiotic treatment has begun if necessary, the best way to ensure that chronic nasal infection does not recur is to avoid getting another illness. Colds and flus can be avoided through hand washing, staying away from large crowds, and eating healthy foods to keep the immune system strong. Allergies cannot always be prevented, but they can be lessened by using medication or by lessening their impact through exposure to common allergens in small amounts. This can be done with shots or by eating raw local honey, which usually contains allergens passed through the bees which make it.
If chronic illness and infections are still a problem, there may be another underlying health condition. Patients should discuss any cold symptoms which last longer than two weeks with their doctors. There are various ailments which can compromise immune function, so proper testing will be needed.