What can I do to prevent sinusitis in the future?
Since sinusitis is often a secondary infection, you may be able to prevent it by treating your child's colds or allergies differently. When your child has a cold, for example, make sure to keep your home environment moist.
Moisture helps keep the sinus linings and secretions thin. A humidifier can help – just be sure to clean it regularly to prevent mold growth. In addition, keep your child well hydrated, since drinking adequate liquids has the same benefit.
If you suspect that your child has allergies, speak to his doctor about treatment options, both environmental and pharmaceutical. Long-term maintenance of allergies can go a long way toward preventing future sinus infections.
Keep your home clear of known allergens, such as cigarette smoke, pet dander, and dust, since all of these can irritate the nasal passages and contribute to sinusitis. See our allergies article for tips on how to keep your home allergen-free.
If your child ends up with sinusitis, you can find comfort in the fact that it's a common condition – an estimated 37 million people a year get sinus infections – and there are plenty of treatment and prevention options.