The medical term used for a sinus infection is sinusitis, and is caused because of the swelling of the sinuses present inside the nasal passage. Sinuses are the tiny cavities in the bones in and around the nose area. Due to some bacterial or viral infection, these cavities get blocked, which results in lot of pain and discomfort. This condition is also known as a sinus attack. Based on the severity, This condition is categorized into three different types. They are: acute, chronic, and recurring sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis is the most severe form of the three and requires treatment for a long period of time while acute sinusitis can be treated within a few weeks. In recurring sinusitis, the symptoms show up again and again. Sinus infection medication is given depending on the type of infection. Best Medications for Sinusitis Nasal Decongestants The most bothering part of a sinus infection is nasal congestion caused by post nasal drip. For this reason, nasal decongestants are considered as one of the best over the counter medication options. It helps to bring down the swelling of the mucous membranes of the nose and makes the breathing easy. They are available both in the form of nasal sprays as well as tablets. Sprays are more popular of the two as they provide instant relief. However, they should not be used continuously for more than three days as it tends to become less effective. Some people also tend to become dependent on them. Therefore, after three days of application, it should be replaced by oral medicines. Antibiotics These are used in order to get rid of the bacterial infection. Nasal decongestants can bring relief to the symptoms, but cannot be used to treat the root cause, i.e., the bacteria. Antibiotics are capable of eliminating most of the infection causing microorganisms. When antibiotics are taken on time, the risk of chronic sinus attack can be reduced to some extent. However, this should not be taken without the advice of a doctor. They should be taken for a specified period of time as per the advise of the doctor. It should not be stopped in the middle even if the symptoms disappear. In this way, you can ensure complete elimination of the bacteria. Antihistamines These medicines are taken only if sinusitis is caused by allergic reactions from substances found in the environment. In these cases, when the allergens like pollens from the environment enter our body, it activates the white blood cells, which in turn release histamine into the blood. This condition promotes the leakage of fluid from the blood vessels into the nasal cavity and cause blockage. To control such allergic problems and get relief from congestion symptoms, antihistamines are used. These medicines are available over the counter, but it is advisable to consult the doctor first. Moreover, they have certain side effects such as, some of them dry up the mucosa and make the sinus drainage difficult and some of them cause drowsiness. For all such reasons, one should try to avoid them. Other Medications Pain killers are prescribed to reduce the pain and swelling associated with a sinus infection. Steroids are also used for controlling the inflammation caused by allergies. Since there are some side effects of steroids, it is not usually preferred by physicians. Mucolytic agents when administered orally are very helpful for thinning the mucous in the nasal passage and clearing of the nasal passage through drainage. Due to hormonal changes, sinus infection can occur during pregnancy. Sinus infection medication for pregnant women should be chosen with care, because those medicines which have pseudoephedrine as a component can increase the risk of birth defects. If the medicines fail to cure the condition in some patients, then a surgery may be required where the sinus openings are enlarged in order to facilitate better drainage. Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.