I think the latest wisdom is that antibiotics are not always useful for sinus infections.

Yeah, and they don't culture anything to see what bacteria (if any) we're dealing with, to select an appropriate antibiotic. So I question the usefulness of seeing a doctor.

I think if it was just that my sinuses hurt and my snot was gross, I wouldn't think about the doctor. But adding in how exhausted and run-down I am is what made me wonder if I needed to get checked out.

Steph, have you tried ... must look up spelling, but guafenisen? (Or something like that.) That's what my doctor always advises, as well as nasal spray. So you're basically clearing the gunk out, but not using antibiotics.

Okay, I was sort of close: guaifenesin. It's essentially Mucinex.

It's not just the infection that can become dangerous, but the stuff in your sinuses can build up and harden over time - my doc compared it to dried up peanut butter. And then they have to go in surgically and clean you out. Speaking from experience. Now I take Mucinex twice a day and use Flonase and rinse my nose out with a Neti pot to prevent having to go through that again.

All of which is a lead up to: I'd go to the doc, if only for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.

I don't see the downside for going to the doctor if you are feeling bad, have been for a while, and aren't completely sure why. Kinda what doctors are there for. Even if it is just allergies and there's no particular additional treatment you should be doing, it'd be better to have that confirmed.

ETA: I am not a great one for actually doing this myself. It rarely occurs to me that going to the doctor is an option. Which adds to the argument that when it does seem like it might be a viable option, it probably is.

Liese, peace to your family. And Teppy, go to the doctor. Even if he says "just keep doing what you are doing" it is good to know that.

A friend had surgery because her nasal passages practically stopped at her nose, which was constantly causing sinus issues. I told a colleague about it and he basically ran to the doctor to get the same procedure. Might be worth having a specialist look at it, Steph.

well, I am glad I know there are more seasons. you crazy kids who watched this in real time.

I have a couple friends who have had their sinuses roto-rootered. I'm kinda jealous but also not sure I could handle the disgusting aftermath.

ouch

It is a disgusting process. I appreciate the results, but encourage everyone to look after their sinuses before roto-rooting is required.