How do humidifiers alleviate sinus problems and post-nasal drip. Which types of humidifiers are most effective for respiratory issues. What features should you look for when choosing a humidifier for sinus relief. How to properly maintain and clean your humidifier for optimal performance.

Understanding the Role of Humidifiers in Sinus Health

Humidifiers play a crucial role in managing sinus problems and post-nasal drip by adding moisture to the air we breathe. Dry air can exacerbate sinus issues, causing irritation, swelling, and thickening of mucus. By increasing humidity levels, these devices can provide significant relief from various respiratory symptoms.

How exactly do humidifiers benefit sinus health?

• They help thin out and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel
• Moisturize and soothe irritated airways
• Alleviate dry eyes often associated with sinusitis
• Prevent nasal passages from drying out and cracking

While humidifiers can offer substantial relief, it’s essential to use them correctly and maintain them properly to maximize their benefits and avoid potential health risks.

Types of Humidifiers: Choosing the Right One for Your Needs

When it comes to humidifiers, one size doesn’t fit all. Different types of humidifiers work in various ways, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Understanding these differences can help you choose the most suitable option for your specific sinus issues.

Whole-House Humidifiers

These systems are designed to humidify an entire home and are typically integrated into the HVAC system. While they offer comprehensive coverage, they represent only about 4% of humidifiers sold in the United States due to their higher cost and professional installation requirements.

Cool Mist Humidifiers

Cool mist humidifiers are among the most popular options and come in two main types:

1. Impellers: These use a spinning disc to propel water through a mesh screen, creating a fine mist.
2. Evaporators: Utilizing a fan and a wick, these units blow air through a moistened wick to add humidity to the room.

Ultrasonic Humidifiers

These versatile units can produce both warm and cool mist. They operate by vibrating a metal or ceramic diaphragm to create tiny water droplets, resulting in a quieter operation compared to other types.

Steam Humidifiers

Simple in design, these devices boil water to release steam into the room. While often inexpensive, their effectiveness in reducing sinus issues hasn’t been conclusively proven in studies.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Humidifier for Sinus Relief

Selecting the right humidifier involves more than just price considerations. To ensure you get the most benefit for your sinus health, pay attention to these crucial features:

• Appropriate Size: Match the humidifier’s capacity to the room size to avoid under- or over-humidification.
• Ease of Cleaning: Look for models that are easy to disassemble and reassemble for regular maintenance.
• Humidity Control: A built-in humidistat that automatically shuts off the device when optimal humidity is reached can prevent over-humidification.
• Noise Level: Consider the operational noise, especially if you plan to use the humidifier while sleeping.
• User Reviews: Research customer feedback to gauge real-world performance and reliability.
• Warranty: Opt for products with at least a one-year warranty for peace of mind.

Is a warm or cool mist humidifier better for sinus problems?

Both warm and cool mist humidifiers can be effective for sinus relief. Cool mist humidifiers are generally safer, especially around children, as there’s no risk of burns. Warm mist humidifiers may feel more soothing for some users and can help the room feel warmer in colder months. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and specific needs.

Top-Rated Humidifiers for Sinus Relief and Post-Nasal Drip

Based on expert reviews and user feedback, here are some highly recommended humidifiers that can help alleviate sinus problems and post-nasal drip:

1. Levoit LV600 Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier: A versatile option offering both warm and cool mist with user-friendly features.
2. Homasy Cool Mist Humidifier: Ideal for smaller spaces with its compact design and automatic shut-off function.
3. Pure Enrichment MistAire Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier: Known for its quiet operation and ease of use in compact areas.
4. Honeywell HCM 350B Germ Free Humidifier: Suitable for larger rooms, featuring UV technology to eliminate airborne bacteria and fungi.
5. Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier: Compatible with VapoSteam for additional respiratory relief during congestion.
6. TaoTronics Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier: Offers a large capacity tank and dual mist options for versatile use.

Proper Maintenance and Cleaning of Your Humidifier

To ensure your humidifier continues to provide optimal benefits for your sinus health, regular maintenance is crucial. Neglecting to clean your humidifier can lead to the growth of mold and bacteria, potentially exacerbating respiratory issues.

How often should you clean your humidifier?

For most portable humidifiers, a thorough cleaning should be performed at least once a week. However, if you use your humidifier daily, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning guidelines.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

1. Unplug the humidifier and empty any remaining water from the tank.
2. Disassemble the unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Clean all parts with a solution of white vinegar and water or a mild detergent.
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any cleaning solution residue.
5. Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling.
6. For units with filters, replace them as recommended by the manufacturer.

Using distilled or demineralized water in your humidifier can help reduce mineral buildup and extend the life of your device.

Optimal Humidity Levels for Sinus Health

While humidifiers can provide significant relief for sinus problems, maintaining the right humidity level is crucial. Too much humidity can create an environment conducive to mold and dust mite growth, potentially worsening respiratory issues.

What is the ideal indoor humidity level for sinus health?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This range helps alleviate sinus symptoms while preventing the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Tips for Maintaining Optimal Humidity

• Use a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity levels
• Adjust your humidifier settings based on hygrometer readings
• Be mindful of seasonal changes that may affect indoor humidity
• Use dehumidifiers in conjunction with humidifiers if necessary to maintain balance

Complementary Strategies for Managing Sinus Problems

While humidifiers can be highly effective in alleviating sinus issues, they work best as part of a comprehensive approach to sinus health. Incorporating other strategies can enhance the benefits of humidification and provide more complete relief.

Nasal Irrigation

Using a neti pot or saline nasal spray can help flush out irritants and excess mucus from the nasal passages. This practice can be particularly beneficial when combined with humidifier use.

Staying Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus secretions and keeps nasal passages moist from the inside out. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day.

Steam Inhalation

Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or taking a hot shower can provide quick relief from sinus congestion. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil to the water may enhance the decongestant effect.

Air Purification

Using an air purifier alongside your humidifier can help remove airborne allergens and irritants that may contribute to sinus problems.

Understanding the Limitations of Humidifiers in Sinus Treatment

While humidifiers can provide significant relief for many people suffering from sinus problems and post-nasal drip, it’s important to understand their limitations. Humidifiers are not a cure-all solution and may not be suitable for everyone.

Can humidifiers worsen certain respiratory conditions?

In some cases, increased humidity can exacerbate certain respiratory conditions, such as asthma or allergies to dust mites. It’s crucial to monitor your symptoms and consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any worsening of your condition after using a humidifier.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If your sinus problems persist or worsen despite using a humidifier and implementing other self-care measures, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Chronic sinusitis may require medical intervention, such as antibiotics or other treatments.

Signs that you should seek medical attention include:

• Severe facial pain or headaches
• Fever accompanying sinus symptoms
• Symptoms lasting more than 10 days
• Green or yellow nasal discharge
• Recurring sinus infections

The Future of Humidification Technology for Sinus Relief

As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see innovations in humidification devices that may offer even greater benefits for those suffering from sinus problems and post-nasal drip.

Smart Humidifiers

The integration of smart technology into humidifiers is already underway, with some models offering Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone control. Future developments may include:

• AI-powered humidity optimization based on individual health data
• Integration with smart home systems for seamless environmental control
• Advanced sensors to detect air quality and adjust humidity levels automatically

Hybrid Air Treatment Systems

We may see more all-in-one devices that combine humidification with air purification and aromatherapy functions, providing comprehensive air treatment for optimal respiratory health.

Personalized Humidification

Future technologies might allow for personalized humidification profiles based on individual health needs, potentially integrating with wearable health devices to provide real-time adjustments.

As research in this field continues, we can anticipate more targeted solutions for sinus relief, potentially incorporating new materials and technologies to enhance the effectiveness of humidifiers in managing respiratory health.

Humidifier for Sinus Problems: What Works Best?

A humidifier can moisten the air in your indoor environment, easing the symptoms of sinusitis, like a stuffy nose, dry throat, and congestion.

According to experts, the key to getting the most benefits from a humidifier is to keep it clean and to use it properly.

In this article, we’ll look at what to keep in mind if you’re thinking of using a humidifier to help clear up your sinus issues.

Different humidifiers work in different ways, but the basic principle is the same: They release water vapor into the air.

When the air you breathe is too dry, it can irritate your nose, mouth, and sinuses. The inside of your nose may swell, crack, and even bleed a bit. And the mucus your body produces may become thick and hard to remove.

According to sinus experts, adding moisture to the air with a humidifier is generally good for your sinus health.

Moist air can help thin out and loosen mucus. And the water vapor in the air can moisturize and calm irritated airways and ease dry eyes caused by sinusitis.

Humidifiers range from pricey whole-house systems to inexpensive tabletop units. Their features and temperature capabilities can also vary a lot.

Most of the humidifiers sold are portable cool mist humidifiers. Some propel warm mists or steam. And some units can switch from warm to cool.

Here is a brief breakdown of humidifier types and features:

Whole-house humidifiers

About 4 percent of the humidifiers sold in the United States are systems that can humidify the whole house. Generally, these systems must be installed by HVAC professionals, so they can be quite expensive.

Whole-house humidifiers connect directly to your home’s water lines and have filters that must be replaced at least twice a year.

Impellers

This type of cool mist humidifier is driven by a small motor, which draws water up using a spinning disc. The disc propels water through a mesh screen, creating a light mist.

Evaporators

A type of cool mist humidifier, evaporators contain a fan and a wick. When you fill the unit with water, the wick becomes wet. The fan blows cool air through the wick, where it gathers moisture before being released into the room.

Ultrasonic units

Ultrasonic humidifiers can blow either warm or cool air. They propel tiny water droplets by vibrating a metal or ceramic diaphragm under the water level. Ultrasonic units are usually quieter than evaporators.

Steam

A simple steam humidifier boils water and releases the steam into the room. These portable units are often inexpensive. It’s important to note that studies haven’t confirmed whether steam humidifiers are effective at reducing sinus issues.

There are many factors to consider when buying a humidifier. Although price is an important consideration, here are some other factors to keep in mind when trying to choose the right humidifier for your sinusitis.

• Buy the right size. Make sure you buy a humidifier that’s the right size for the space where it’ll be used. A humidifier that’s too large for the space can create too much moisture which, in turn, could encourage the growth of mold and bacteria. A humidifier that’s too small won’t give you the level of humidity you need to help relieve your symptoms.
• Easy to clean. Choose a model that’s easy to take apart and put back together, so cleaning is quick and simple.
• Humidity feature. Look for a humidistat feature that shuts off the device when the air reaches an optimal humidity.
• Listen before you buy. Turn the humidifier on and listen to it before you buy it. Some models may be loud enough to disturb your sleep.
• Read reviews. Be sure to read the ratings and reviews on different humidifiers before you buy one. Make sure it has the features you need and that it will be easy to clean and maintain.
• Check out the warranty. Look for a product warranty that lasts at least a year.

Product recommendations

Healthline has given these portable humidifiers top ratings. You can buy each of these products online.

• Levoit LV600 Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier. This moderately priced, easy-to-clean humidifier has plenty of useful features and can produce both warm and cool mist.
• Homasy Cool Mist Humidifier. Ideal for smaller rooms, this humidifier is easy to clean and has an automatic shutoff feature.
• Pure Enrichment MistAire Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier. This quiet, compact humidifier is super easy to use and works well in smaller spaces.
• Honeywell HCM 350B Germ Free Humidifier. Well suited to larger rooms, this quiet unit has the advantage of ultraviolet technology that can eliminate bacteria and fungi in the air.
• Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier. This warm mist humidifier can be used with Vicks VapoSteam, which may provide respiratory relief when you’re congested.
• TaoTronics Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier. Featuring a larger capacity tank, this humidifier can also switch between producing warm or cool mist.
• Hey Dewy Portable Facial Humidifier. Powered by a USB cable, this small, portable humidifier is well suited for use on airplanes and in other public spaces.

Was this helpful?

The right kind of humidifier may help reduce sinusitis and allergy symptoms when used correctly.

Here are a few tips on how to use a humidifier:

• Fill with distilled water only. Tap water often has minerals that can be irritating if inhaled.
• To prevent your indoor space from becoming too humid, run a humidifier only when you need it. Don’t run it all the time. If possible, opt for a humidifier that will shut off when the humidity reaches a certain level in your indoor space.
• Take the humidifier apart and clean it daily, following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the humidifier uses filters, make sure you replace these regularly.
• Make sure to rinse away any disinfectant thoroughly. Breathing in disinfectant particles can harm your lungs.
• Test the air humidity. For the best indoor air quality, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends maintaining between 30-50 percent humidity. Humidity levels above 50 percent can induce the growth of bacteria and molds.

Some health experts are hesitant to recommend humidifiers in places where someone’s health is vulnerable. One of the main reasons is because humidifiers that aren’t properly cleaned can disperse bacteria or fungi through the air.

Steam humidifiers are less likely to breed and spread germs, but there is some concern over the possibility of burns from hot water with steam units.

It’s also important to use caution if you decide to use essential oils with your humidifier. Some people and pets are sensitive to oils.

To treat or reduce dry, irritated, or congested sinuses, you may also want to consider the following strategies:

• Irrigate your nasal passages. You can use a neti pot or bulb syringe to gently rinse your nose with slightly salty water. Healthcare professionals also often recommend over-the-counter (OTC) nasal rinse kits for patients with congested sinuses.
• Alternate compresses. To ease sinus pressure, place a warm, wet cloth over your nose and forehead for several minutes. Then replace the warm compress with a cool, damp compress. Rotate the two several times.
• Identify allergens. If your nose is stuffy or congested and your eyes are red or irritated, there may be something in your environment that’s causing an allergy. Pets, pollens, and chemicals are common culprits. Try to limit your exposure to known allergens.
• Limit drying medications. Some sinus medicines can cause a dry mouth, nose, and throat. Others can actually trigger rebound congestion if used too many days in a row. Talk with a pharmacist or healthcare professional about better alternatives.
• Stay away from irritating chemicals. Some people have a strong sensitivity to harsh cleaning chemicals and beauty products with artificial fragrances.
• Find out if another health condition is the culprit. Nasal polyps, irritable bowel syndrome, Sjogren’s syndrome, viral infections, and other health conditions can cause sinus symptoms. Sometimes menopause and pregnancy can also bring on allergy-like symptoms.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to balance your internal fluid levels and to prevent dehydration.

If you’re able to manage your sinus symptoms on your own, and you start to feel better, you may not need to see a healthcare professional.

But if you develop any of the following symptoms, it’s important to get medical care as soon as you’re able:

• sinus symptoms that last longer than 10-14 days
• fever over 102 degrees
• facial pain, redness, and swelling
• vision changes
• symptoms that carry on after you’ve finished antibiotics
• persistent headaches
• severe headache that doesn’t get better when you take over-the-counter medication

A humidifier is a good tool to have on hand if you experience sinus issues from time to time. It may help break up mucus, relieve a stuffy nose, and ease discomfort in your nose and throat.

A word of caution, however: Humidifiers need to be frequently and thoroughly cleaned, or they can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, which may worsen your sinus problems.

There are also other steps you can take to relieve your sinus issues. This includes irrigating your nasal passages, using warm and cold compresses, and limiting the use of certain medications.

Humidifier for Sinus Problems: What Works Best?

A humidifier can moisten the air in your indoor environment, easing the symptoms of sinusitis, like a stuffy nose, dry throat, and congestion.

According to experts, the key to getting the most benefits from a humidifier is to keep it clean and to use it properly.

In this article, we’ll look at what to keep in mind if you’re thinking of using a humidifier to help clear up your sinus issues.

Different humidifiers work in different ways, but the basic principle is the same: They release water vapor into the air.

When the air you breathe is too dry, it can irritate your nose, mouth, and sinuses. The inside of your nose may swell, crack, and even bleed a bit. And the mucus your body produces may become thick and hard to remove.

According to sinus experts, adding moisture to the air with a humidifier is generally good for your sinus health.

Moist air can help thin out and loosen mucus. And the water vapor in the air can moisturize and calm irritated airways and ease dry eyes caused by sinusitis.

Humidifiers range from pricey whole-house systems to inexpensive tabletop units. Their features and temperature capabilities can also vary a lot.

Most of the humidifiers sold are portable cool mist humidifiers. Some propel warm mists or steam. And some units can switch from warm to cool.

Here is a brief breakdown of humidifier types and features:

Whole-house humidifiers

About 4 percent of the humidifiers sold in the United States are systems that can humidify the whole house. Generally, these systems must be installed by HVAC professionals, so they can be quite expensive.

Whole-house humidifiers connect directly to your home’s water lines and have filters that must be replaced at least twice a year.

Impellers

This type of cool mist humidifier is driven by a small motor, which draws water up using a spinning disc. The disc propels water through a mesh screen, creating a light mist.

Evaporators

A type of cool mist humidifier, evaporators contain a fan and a wick. When you fill the unit with water, the wick becomes wet. The fan blows cool air through the wick, where it gathers moisture before being released into the room.

Ultrasonic units

Ultrasonic humidifiers can blow either warm or cool air. They propel tiny water droplets by vibrating a metal or ceramic diaphragm under the water level. Ultrasonic units are usually quieter than evaporators.

Steam

A simple steam humidifier boils water and releases the steam into the room. These portable units are often inexpensive. It’s important to note that studies haven’t confirmed whether steam humidifiers are effective at reducing sinus issues.

There are many factors to consider when buying a humidifier. Although price is an important consideration, here are some other factors to keep in mind when trying to choose the right humidifier for your sinusitis.

• Buy the right size. Make sure you buy a humidifier that’s the right size for the space where it’ll be used. A humidifier that’s too large for the space can create too much moisture which, in turn, could encourage the growth of mold and bacteria. A humidifier that’s too small won’t give you the level of humidity you need to help relieve your symptoms.
• Easy to clean. Choose a model that’s easy to take apart and put back together, so cleaning is quick and simple.
• Humidity feature. Look for a humidistat feature that shuts off the device when the air reaches an optimal humidity.
• Listen before you buy. Turn the humidifier on and listen to it before you buy it. Some models may be loud enough to disturb your sleep.
• Read reviews. Be sure to read the ratings and reviews on different humidifiers before you buy one. Make sure it has the features you need and that it will be easy to clean and maintain.
• Check out the warranty. Look for a product warranty that lasts at least a year.

Product recommendations

Healthline has given these portable humidifiers top ratings. You can buy each of these products online.

• Levoit LV600 Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier. This moderately priced, easy-to-clean humidifier has plenty of useful features and can produce both warm and cool mist.
• Homasy Cool Mist Humidifier. Ideal for smaller rooms, this humidifier is easy to clean and has an automatic shutoff feature.
• Pure Enrichment MistAire Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier. This quiet, compact humidifier is super easy to use and works well in smaller spaces.
• Honeywell HCM 350B Germ Free Humidifier. Well suited to larger rooms, this quiet unit has the advantage of ultraviolet technology that can eliminate bacteria and fungi in the air.
• Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier. This warm mist humidifier can be used with Vicks VapoSteam, which may provide respiratory relief when you’re congested.
• TaoTronics Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier. Featuring a larger capacity tank, this humidifier can also switch between producing warm or cool mist.
• Hey Dewy Portable Facial Humidifier. Powered by a USB cable, this small, portable humidifier is well suited for use on airplanes and in other public spaces.

Was this helpful?

The right kind of humidifier may help reduce sinusitis and allergy symptoms when used correctly.

Here are a few tips on how to use a humidifier:

• Fill with distilled water only. Tap water often has minerals that can be irritating if inhaled.
• To prevent your indoor space from becoming too humid, run a humidifier only when you need it. Don’t run it all the time. If possible, opt for a humidifier that will shut off when the humidity reaches a certain level in your indoor space.
• Take the humidifier apart and clean it daily, following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the humidifier uses filters, make sure you replace these regularly.
• Make sure to rinse away any disinfectant thoroughly. Breathing in disinfectant particles can harm your lungs.
• Test the air humidity. For the best indoor air quality, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends maintaining between 30-50 percent humidity. Humidity levels above 50 percent can induce the growth of bacteria and molds.

Some health experts are hesitant to recommend humidifiers in places where someone’s health is vulnerable. One of the main reasons is because humidifiers that aren’t properly cleaned can disperse bacteria or fungi through the air.

Steam humidifiers are less likely to breed and spread germs, but there is some concern over the possibility of burns from hot water with steam units.

It’s also important to use caution if you decide to use essential oils with your humidifier. Some people and pets are sensitive to oils.

To treat or reduce dry, irritated, or congested sinuses, you may also want to consider the following strategies:

• Irrigate your nasal passages. You can use a neti pot or bulb syringe to gently rinse your nose with slightly salty water. Healthcare professionals also often recommend over-the-counter (OTC) nasal rinse kits for patients with congested sinuses.
• Alternate compresses. To ease sinus pressure, place a warm, wet cloth over your nose and forehead for several minutes. Then replace the warm compress with a cool, damp compress. Rotate the two several times.
• Identify allergens. If your nose is stuffy or congested and your eyes are red or irritated, there may be something in your environment that’s causing an allergy. Pets, pollens, and chemicals are common culprits. Try to limit your exposure to known allergens.
• Limit drying medications. Some sinus medicines can cause a dry mouth, nose, and throat. Others can actually trigger rebound congestion if used too many days in a row. Talk with a pharmacist or healthcare professional about better alternatives.
• Stay away from irritating chemicals. Some people have a strong sensitivity to harsh cleaning chemicals and beauty products with artificial fragrances.
• Find out if another health condition is the culprit. Nasal polyps, irritable bowel syndrome, Sjogren’s syndrome, viral infections, and other health conditions can cause sinus symptoms. Sometimes menopause and pregnancy can also bring on allergy-like symptoms.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to balance your internal fluid levels and to prevent dehydration.

If you’re able to manage your sinus symptoms on your own, and you start to feel better, you may not need to see a healthcare professional.

But if you develop any of the following symptoms, it’s important to get medical care as soon as you’re able:

• sinus symptoms that last longer than 10-14 days
• fever over 102 degrees
• facial pain, redness, and swelling
• vision changes
• symptoms that carry on after you’ve finished antibiotics
• persistent headaches
• severe headache that doesn’t get better when you take over-the-counter medication

A humidifier is a good tool to have on hand if you experience sinus issues from time to time. It may help break up mucus, relieve a stuffy nose, and ease discomfort in your nose and throat.

A word of caution, however: Humidifiers need to be frequently and thoroughly cleaned, or they can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, which may worsen your sinus problems.

There are also other steps you can take to relieve your sinus issues. This includes irrigating your nasal passages, using warm and cold compresses, and limiting the use of certain medications.

how to beat addiction to nasal drops

Enroll

August 23, 2021

read 5 minutes

Many have been using cold sprays for years to solve a simple problem without suspecting serious consequences. Otorhinolaryngologist Oleg Abramov talks about treatment options.

Chronic nasal congestion is a common problem that, if not treated in time, can lead to serious consequences. According to large studies, 1/3 of the world’s population has difficulty with nasal breathing. However, many neglect a visit to the doctor and adapt over time. The situation is worse with self-medication, when a person begins to use over-the-counter drugs, namely vasoconstrictor sprays, which can be addictive.

Oleg Abramov, Head of the Department of Operative Otorhinolaryngology at GMS Hospital, author of the @ent_expert blog.

Development of nasal congestion

The nasal cavity is an area that is actively supplied with blood due to the large number of venous vascular sacs in the thickness of the mucous membrane. They are necessary to perform important functions – warming and moistening the inhaled air. Due to some reasons (colds, allergies), swelling of the mucous membrane occurs, which leads to difficulty in nasal breathing and nasal congestion. In most cases, it is temporary and disappears with the use of local remedies, such as vasoconstrictor drops and sprays.

Medical treatment

Vasoconstrictors (decongestants) are drugs that have a local effect. When used, a quick and effective reduction of the swollen vascular networks of the nasal cavity occurs and nasal breathing is facilitated. These medicines can be purchased without a doctor’s prescription. There are many trade names, but there are only three active ingredients: oxymetazoline, xylometazoline, phenylephrine.

Development of addiction and dependence

Unfortunately, few people pay attention to the instructions and warnings that long-term use (more than 5-7 days) of these drugs can be addictive. Thus, after the end of the course of treatment, the congestion will return again, and in order to remove it, you need to spray the remedy again into the nose. This effect in medicine is called “tachyphylaxis”, in other words, the boomerang effect, when after the end of the action there is a recurrent nasal congestion. As a result, congestion is really removed with the help of a spray, but as soon as you stop using it, it returns.

Problem denial

In ENT practice, drug-induced rhinitis is considered a common problem, which remains unobvious for an ordinary person, a non-specialist. At the same time, the consequences of the constant use of vasoconstrictors are quite serious. First of all, it is the suppression of the natural functions of the mucous membrane – humidification and warming of the air, as a result of which crusts and bruises form. Patients report constant dryness in the nose. And due to a decrease in mucus production, a sore throat and hoarseness of voice are observed. Contraction of blood vessels in the thickness of the mucous membrane leads to atrophic changes and thickening of the mucus-producing glands, which further increases nasal congestion. Constantly using these tools, people, without suspecting it, provoke irreversible changes in the nasal cavity.

Drops addiction treatment methods

Despite the seriousness of the developing changes, the problem is quite easily solved. Both conservative and surgical treatment is possible – the optimal tactics is determined in consultation with the doctor, taking into account the priorities of the patient. According to research data, courses of drugs with an anti-inflammatory effect (fluticasone, mometasone) effectively relieve inflammatory changes in the nasal mucosa, and approximately 80% of patients become addicted to drops within a three-week course. If such tactics did not lead to positive dynamics, the possibility of surgical treatment should be considered. This is a short and quick procedure that is almost 100% effective, so that the vast majority of patients no longer use vasoconstrictors after surgery.

In my practice, I often encounter patients’ anxiety before starting treatment. This is not surprising, I have met people who ran to the pharmacy in the middle of the night for sprays or left the car in a traffic jam due to the lack of a spray, they simply did not go outside without the coveted bottle. Therefore, modern tactics involve not only drug therapy, but also a psychological explanation that soon there will come a moment when you no longer want to get a spray and splatter it, because the nose breathes freely. It is a great happiness when free breathing lasts longer than the effect of sprays allows. I advise everyone not to delay treatment until later and effectively solve this simple but significant problem with the help of a doctor.

Pediatric otorhinolaryngologist
Otorhinolaryngologist / ENT
Surgeon

RBC source

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16 essential oils that help with colds and nasal congestion. How to use them most effectively?

The common cold is one of the most unpleasant conditions of the body. Coughing, sneezing, stuffy nose – and you’re done, it’s impossible to concentrate on anything and find at least some comfortable position. And so two weeks. Familiar? Still would. Autumn, winter and spring are the time of inevitable colds. There are ways to prevent and prevent a cold, but even the utmost caution does not always protect against infection.

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In addition to a healthy lifestyle, good sleep and proper nutrition, essential oils help prevent or speed up recovery from colds. Let’s figure out which oils are best to help fight a cold and how do they work?

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Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

Research has shown that essential oils can relieve symptoms, fight viruses effectively, and make you feel better during colds.

How to use essential oils?

The most common use is through a diffuser. Dispersed in the air, essential oil can reduce the amount of viral particles in the air and work as a natural antiseptic.

If you don’t have a diffuser and don’t want to buy it, it’s not a problem. You can simply inhale the essential oil by sniffing the bottle with it, or add a couple of drops to a cotton pad. This method will help clear the nasal passages, alleviate nasal congestion. And some oils (such as lavender oil) will help you sleep better and speed up the recovery process. You can also add a couple of drops of oil to a warm bath or a container of hot water and breathe in the steam.

Important to know

Essential oils can also be applied directly to the skin, but must be diluted with a few drops of base oil (avocado, coconut or olive). Remember, essential oils are highly concentrated! In no case do not apply them undiluted to the skin and do not take them inside!

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Also, some oils may interact with prescription drugs or supplements, so be sure to check with your doctor before using. If you plan to apply oils to your skin but have ever had an allergic or dermatological reaction, consult a dermatologist. Essential oils can cause irritation in people with sensitive skin. If you have allergies, you should also be careful.

Now that you’re armed with the information you need, here are the top 10 best oils for colds, sore throats, coughs, fevers, and more.

Top essential oils for colds

Chamomile oil

A 2010 study found that inhaling chamomile essential oil vapor helps relieve symptoms of a cold. At the very least, such a procedure will have an effect similar to that of a cup of warm chamomile tea.

Tea Tree Oil

This oil is often found in skin and hair cosmetics, but it also has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Inhale it with steam or apply to the skin (diluted!).

Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus, like tea tree, has strong antiviral properties. Choose which flavor you like best.

Peppermint oil

Peppermint drops are good for coughs and sore throats, right? Inhaling peppermint oil helps soothe an irritated throat, relieve nasal congestion, and make breathing easier.

Lavender oil

A cold is not only a runny nose, cough and watery eyes, but also fatigue and insomnia that are caused by breathing problems. Lavender oil helps to relax, improves sleep, relieves nasal congestion.

Ginger root oil

Hot tea with lemon, honey and ginger is a classic in the fight against cold symptoms. Ginger essential oil also works great, as it has antiviral activity and relieves cold symptoms.

Rosemary oil

Rosemary is good for more than just seasoning. The essential oil from this plant facilitates breathing, reduces nasal congestion and strengthens the immune system.

Basil oil

Basil oil has antispasmodic properties, helps to relax the respiratory system, relieves nasal congestion and even slightly reduces fever.

Cedarwood oil

Cedar essential oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties. It loosens mucus and aids in its expulsion, and, like lavender oil, it is soothing and helps you sleep better.

Frankincense oil

This oil has anti-inflammatory properties and relieves cough.

Lemon Oil

Lemon essential oil is excellent for sinus drainage, antimicrobial action and easier breathing.

Orange oil

Orange is rich in vitamin C, its essential oil helps with colds and flu. Citrus oils in general have a beneficial effect on the immune system.

Oregano oil

This oil also has powerful antiviral activity.

Sandalwood oil

Sandalwood is used as an antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory agent.