How to Treat a Sinus Infection While Nursing

Sinus infections can be uncomfortable, and many people with this condition scramble to their local drugstore as quickly as possible to find relief. For breastfeeding mothers, treating a sinus infection is not so simple. Medications can not only affect the mother, but the nursing baby as well. Exploring natural remedies and breastfeeding-safe medications can ensure that a breastfeeding mother can treat her sinus infection without causing unintended harm to her nursing infant.

Step 1

Drink water. Keep hydrated to thin the mucus, suggests MedlinePlus. Drink extra water or fluids throughout the day. Avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol, as they can be dehydrating.

Step 2

Inhale steam. Use a humidifier, sit in the bathroom with the shower running, or hold your face over a bowl of hot water to do so.

Step 3

Soak a washcloth in warm water. Use the warm washcloth to cover your face several times a day.

Step 4

Spray a nasal saline solution into the nose several times a day. You can purchase a saline nose spray at the store, but check the label to make sure it does not contain any medications. You can also prepare your own saline solution at home by mixing 1/4 tsp. of salt, 1/4 tsp. of baking soda with 1 cup of water, and use a bulb syringe to squirt the solution into your nasal passage, suggests the University of Michigan Health Systems.

Step 5

Call your doctor. Explain that you are nursing, and ask which antibiotics or medications are safe to take. Discuss ways you can time breastfeeding to minimize the baby's exposure to the medication in the milk, suggests AskDrSears.com.

Things You'll Need

• Humidifier

• Washcloth

• Saline solution

Tip

Rest when your baby rests. Getting an adequate amount of sleep ,and avoiding stress may make you recover more quickly.

Avoid sudden changes in temperature and bending forward with your head down, as these things may worsen sinus pressure or pain.

Warning

Call a doctor if your symptoms do not get better after approximately 2 to 3 weeks. Also, call a doctor if you have a severe headache, severe swelling around the eyes or a fever higher than 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit.