Sinus Squeeze Treatment

The following guidelines are suggested in treating sinus squeeze:

• Apply warm compresses to the face.


• Avoid diving until recovery is complete.


• Take decongestants (such as Afrin) for a maximum of 3 days.


• Take one 30-mg tablet of pseudoephedrine (such as Sudafed) every 6 hours for 2-3 days. Avoid products with pseudoephedrine if you have a history of high blood pressure.


• Relieve pain with 1-2 acetaminophen tablets (Tylenol) every 4 hours or 1-2 ibuprofen tablets (Advil, Motrin) every 6-8 hours.

Oral antibiotics are usually recommended only if sinus pressure persists or if thick, infected discharge from the ear, nose, or mouth develops.

• Check for drug allergy prior to starting any antibiotic.


• Use a sunscreen because some antibiotics cause sensitivity to the sun.