Doxycycline For Sinusitis - Fast Relief For Bacterial Sinus Infections

About Doxycycline

• What Is Bacterial Sinusitis And How Is It Different From Viral Sinusitis?

  

  Bacterial sinusitis is a bacterial infection that causes the tissue lining your sinuses to become inflamed. Sinuses are structures inside your face that are usually filled with air. If you have a bacterial infection, your sinuses could become blocked, causing pressure and pain in your face. You may also have a blocked nose and a decreased sense of smell.

  Sinusitis can also be caused by a virus. The symptoms of viral and bacterial sinusitis are largely the same, however viral sinusitis normally resolves on its own within seven to 10 days. Bacterial sinusitis on the other hand can last a lot longer and, after initially getting better, could become worse as the days go by.

  Antibiotics like doxycycline are only effective in fighting bacterial sinusitis, they won’t have any effect on viral infections. If you’re not sure which type of sinusitis you have, book a consultation with a member of our team to discuss your symptoms.

• How Long Does Doxycycline Take To Work For Sinusitis?

  

  Doxycycline will get to work fighting the bacteria causing your infection fast, and you may see your symptoms improve within three to five days.

  If your pain and congestion haven’t eased after a week, the bacteria causing your infection may be resistant to antibiotics or your sinusitis could be viral. Book another consultation to discuss your symptoms and your treatment options.

• Why Is Doxycycline Prescribed Instead Of Amoxicillin For Some People?

  

  Amoxicillin and doxycycline belong to different groups of antibiotics. Doxycycline is in the tetracycline family, while amoxicillin belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics. This means that, if you’re allergic to penicillin, you can’t take amoxicillin to treat an infection.

  Because doxycycline is a very effective antibiotic, it’s often used instead of amoxicillin when the patient is allergic to penicillin.

• What Should I Do If I Miss A Dose Of Doxycycline?

  

  If you forget to take a dose of doxycycline, take your tablets as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your course of antibiotics as normal. Never take two doses at the same time as this could increase your risk of side effects.

  Sticking to a regular dosing schedule will help your sinusitis to clear up quickly. So, if you often forget to take your dose of doxycycline, try setting an alarm as a reminder.

• Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Doxycycline For Sinusitis?

  

  Alcohol can interact with doxycycline, making it less effective and increasing your risk of side effects. Where possible, avoid drinking alcohol when taking doxycycline.

• How Can I Manage Side Effects From Doxycycline?

  

  The most common side effects of doxycycline are nausea, vomiting, headaches and sensitivity to sunlight. You may be able to minimise nausea and vomiting by taking your dose of doxycycline with food or after a meal. Staying well hydrated can also help to prevent you feeling sick.

  If you need to go out in the sun, make sure you wear protective clothing and use sun cream when necessary.

• Is Doxycycline Safe For Everyone?

  

  Though doxycycline is generally well-tolerated, it’s not suitable for everyone. The antibiotic may not be safe if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, have kidney or liver problems, have an autoimmune disease like lupus, or have previously had an allergic reaction to doxycycline.

  If any of these apply to you, speak to a member of our team about alternative treatment options.

• What Drug Interactions Should I Be Aware Of With Doxycycline?

  

  Doxycycline may interact with some medications such as antacids, iron supplements, calcium supplements and anticoagulants (blood thinners). Taking your dose of Doxycycline around two hours before or after your other medication may help to minimise interactions.

  Doxycycline could also make some types of oral contraceptive (the pill) less effective. It’s a good idea to use additional protection, such as a condom, when taking the antibiotic.

  Make sure you tell your doctor about any other prescription medications you take during your consultation.

• When Should I Seek Medical Attention While Taking Doxycycline?

  

  If you experience an allergic reaction to doxycycline – for example, you have a raised, red and itchy rash, breathing difficulties or swelling in your lips or face – stop taking the medication and speak to a doctor as soon as possible.

  You should also seek medication attention if you have persistent, severe diarrhoea or changes to your vision.

• What Other Treatments Can Help Relieve Sinusitis Symptoms?

  

  If you have sinusitis, you could also try using a saline nasal spray or decongestant to ease your symptoms. Over the counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, could help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

  If you have severe or persistent sinusitis, or your infection keeps coming back, you could consider nasal corticosteroids. These could reduce inflammation and swelling in your nasal passages, improve drainage and alleviate symptoms like congestion.

• How Do I Buy Doxycycline For Sinusitis Online?

  

  As doxycycline is only available on prescription in the UK, you’ll need to complete a quick online consultation before you can access the medication. This includes filling out a health questionnaire. It’s important you complete this questionnaire accurately as the information you provide will help us to find the right medication for you.

  To learn more about doxycycline and the treatment options available, start your assessment and get the medication you need as soon as possible.

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