Recurrent Sinus Infections

[lilguru]

Can anyone give me advice on what to do to prevent recurrent sinus infections/sinusitis?  My primary care physician doesn't like to give me Biaxin (which I know works) but insists on the Zpac which is 6 days of antibiotic which isn't enough.

If I could somehow prevent these attacks, I would be much better off.  I get them 3 or 4 times a year and they get really bad without treatment.

[BM]

After months of persistent sinus problems, it was a course of high-dose co-trimoxazole (Septrin or Bactrim) for PCP that finally put my nasal woes right. Suggest it as a possible treatment to your doctor.

[BT65]

Lilguru, have you ever been tested for allergies by an allergy doctor?  I don't know if that's it, but it might be worth checking out.

[Jeff G]

You may want to talk to your doctor about what Betty said , I don't know if its allergy's you have but the same thing kept happing to me after moving back to Alabama from California .

My doctor sent me to an allergy specialist where I found out I had many things I'm allergic to . I cant take allergy shots , he instead gave me nasal spray and antihistamines that pretty much ended my recurrent sinus problems . 

[lilguru]

Thanks for the suggestions.  I saw my ID dr. today.  She ordered a ct scan of my sinuses to see what might be happening.  I think the infections start as allergies that cause irritation in my sinuses then infection sets in. 

It seems if I can get antibiotics right at the onset I can keep the infection from kicking my ass, but dr's are reluctant to give antibiotics anymore.  I had a good ID dr. once who would give them to me when I asked, but he is no longer practicing and I don't have that luxury anymore.

I rinse my sinuses twice a day when they are infected, it helps some but not completely.

I have friends who have had surgery on their sinuses to prevent infections but most of the surgeries are unsuccessful.

I am still open to more suggestions.  Thanks again for the replies.

[ARMANDO]

i would seriousily suggest starting allergy shots !!!

[joyluckclub]

Try a "Netty Pot".  It flushes the "stuff" out of the sinus cavities.   It is a cheap way to manage your sinus irritations.