- With Mayo Clinic asthma and allergy specialist
James T. Li, M.D.
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James T. Li, M.D.
James T. Li, M.D.
"People with allergy or asthma can lead full and healthy lives." — Dr. James Li
Dr. Li is chair of the Division of Allergic Diseases in the Department of Internal Medicine and a board-certified asthma and allergy specialist. He hopes his expertise and the information on the site educates health care consumers in an area of rapid change both in medications and diagnoses.
"There are a lot of misperceptions about allergy and asthma," says Dr. Li, a New York City native who has been with Mayo since 1985 and works with a group of subspecialists in allergy, asthma and immunology. "I believe it's important to provide truthful, accurate information about allergy and asthma to the public. The more people know, the better they can take care of these conditions."
Dr. Li is a professor of medicine at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine. He is a past director of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and is a director of the American Board of Allergy and Immunology. He is a fellow in the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and is a director of the American Board of Internal Medicine.
The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology honored him with the Distinguished Service Award and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology with its Special Recognition Award.
Treatments and drugs (2)
- Nasal spray addiction: Is it real?
- Acute sinusitis: Do over-the-counter treatments help?
Alternative medicine (1)
- Oil of oregano: Can it treat sinusitis?
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Question
Acute sinusitis: Do over-the-counter treatments help?
I have acute sinusitis, and my doctor doesn't think I need antibiotics. Are there any nonprescription medications that can help relieve my symptoms?
Answer
from James T. Li, M.D.
Yes. Over-the-counter pain relievers and decongestants may help relieve facial pain and sinus congestion associated with acute sinusitis. Other home remedies you may want to try:
- Steam your sinus cavities. Drape a towel over your head as you breathe in the steam from a bowl of hot water. Or take a hot shower, breathing in the warm, moist air.
- Apply warm compresses. Place warm, damp towels around your nose, cheeks and eyes to ease facial pain.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Consuming additional fluids helps dilute mucous secretions and promotes drainage.
- Avoid alcohol. Drinking alcohol can worsen the swelling of the lining of your nose and sinuses.
- Use a saline nasal spray. Spray a saline solution in your nose several times a day to relieve congestion.
Most people with acute sinusitis get better without antibiotics. However, if your symptoms last longer than a few days, talk to your doctor.
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