Wellness Tips from Josef Schenker, MD| Preventing Sinus Infections

So, what exactly is a sinus infection? Also known as sinusitis, it occurs when the tissue lining your sinuses becomes inflamed or swollen. This inflammation traps mucus and blocks normal drainage, leading to pressure, congestion, and sometimes infection.

Common symptoms of sinus infections include:

• Facial pain or pressure
• Nasal congestion
• Thick nasal discharge (often yellow or green)
• Loss of smell or taste
• Headache
• Cough (especially at night)
• Fatigue or low energy

According to Dr. Josef Schenker, these symptoms can sometimes mimic a cold or allergies, but when they persist or worsen, sinusitis is a likely culprit.

There are different types of sinus infections, each with its own cause and duration:

• Acute sinusitis: Usually caused by a viral infection like the common cold. Symptoms last less than four weeks.
• Subacute sinusitis: Inflammation that lingers between four to twelve weeks. It often follows a lingering upper respiratory infection.
• Chronic sinusitis: Lasts for more than 12 weeks and may involve nasal polyps, ongoing inflammation, or structural issues in the nasal cavity.
• Recurrent sinusitis: Occurs multiple times a year, often triggered by allergens, infections, or anatomical problems.

Josef Schenker, MD, says that knowing which type you’re dealing with can make a big difference. When you understand your symptoms and what triggers them—be it allergies, weather changes, or respiratory infections—you can take steps to prevent flare-ups and get more targeted treatment.

Josef Schenker, MD, Explains How to Prevent Sinus Infections

Sinus infections don’t just cause discomfort—they can throw off your entire day. From grogginess to full-blown headaches, it’s hard to focus on anything when your sinuses are acting up. That’s why prevention is so important. Josef Schenker, MD, explains that by building a few simple habits into your daily routine, you can avoid the pain and hassle altogether.

Here are some proven ways to prevent sinus infections:

Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water throughout the day helps thin the mucus in your sinuses, making it easier to drain properly. When mucus gets too thick, it can clog your sinuses and create a breeding ground for infection, so keep that water bottle close!

Use a humidifier
When the air in your home is too dry, especially during the winter months or when the AC is constantly running, your nasal passages can dry out and become irritated. A humidifier adds just the right amount of moisture, helping your sinuses stay clear and more resilient to infection.

Practice good nasal hygiene
Regularly rinsing your nose with a saline spray or using a neti pot can flush out dust, allergens, and bacteria. It’s a gentle, natural way to keep your nasal passages clean and reduce the risk of inflammation or blockage.

Manage your allergies
If you have seasonal or year-round allergies, don’t ignore them. Allergies cause swelling and mucus buildup in the sinuses, which can easily lead to infection. Over-the-counter antihistamines or allergy shots (immunotherapy) can go a long way in keeping sinus issues at bay.

Avoid smoking and pollutants
Cigarette smoke, strong fumes, and chemical irritants can damage the delicate lining of your nasal passages. If you smoke, consider quitting—and try to limit your exposure to secondhand smoke or heavily polluted environments whenever possible.

Wash your hands regularly
Most sinus infections begin as colds or other respiratory illnesses. Frequent handwashing—especially before eating or touching your face—can help stop germs from spreading and protect you from the viruses that commonly trigger sinus problems.

Strengthen your immune system
A strong immune system is key to preventing all kinds of infections, including sinusitis. Fuel your body with nutritious food, stay active, get adequate rest, and try to manage stress. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in your overall health and resilience.