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Prevention

By Mayo Clinic staff

Take these steps to reduce your risk of getting chronic sinusitis:

  • Avoid upper respiratory infections. Minimize contact with people who have colds. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before your meals.
  • Carefully manage your allergies. Work with your doctor to keep symptoms under control.
  • Avoid cigarette smoke and polluted air. Tobacco smoke and air contaminants can irritate and inflame your lungs and nasal passages.
  • Use a humidifier. If the air in your home is dry, such as it is if you have forced hot air heat, adding moisture to the air may help prevent sinusitis. Be sure the humidifier stays clean and free of mold with regular, thorough cleaning.
References
  1. Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters for Allergy and Immunology. The diagnosis and management of sinusitis: A practice parameter update. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. 2005; 116(6)(suppl):13-47.
  2. Hamilos D, et al. Clinical manifestations, pathophysiology, and diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Sept. 24, 2008.
  3. Leung R, et al. The diagnosis and management of acute and chronic sinusitis. Primary Care Clinics. 2008;35:11-24.
  4. Hamilos D, et al. Management of chronic rhinosinusitis. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Sept. 24, 2008.

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Oct. 11, 2008

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