How do humidifiers help with sinus issues. What types of humidifiers are available. Which features should you look for when buying a humidifier for sinusitis. How to choose the right size and maintain your humidifier.

Understanding the Benefits of Humidifiers for Sinus Health

Humidifiers have become increasingly popular for those suffering from sinus problems. These devices can significantly improve indoor air quality by adding moisture to dry environments, potentially alleviating various sinus-related symptoms. But how exactly do humidifiers benefit sinus health?

Humidifiers work by releasing water vapor into the air, increasing the overall humidity level in a room or space. This added moisture can have several positive effects on sinus health:

• Thinning and loosening mucus, making it easier to expel
• Moisturizing and soothing irritated airways
• Reducing dryness in the nasal passages and throat
• Alleviating dry eye symptoms associated with sinusitis
• Potentially decreasing swelling in the nasal passages

By maintaining proper humidity levels, you can create an environment that’s more conducive to healthy sinus function. However, it’s crucial to use humidifiers correctly and maintain them properly to maximize their benefits and avoid potential risks.

Types of Humidifiers: Finding the Right Fit for Your Needs

When it comes to humidifiers, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Different types of humidifiers are available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Understanding these options can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Whole-House Humidifiers

Whole-house humidifiers are integrated into your home’s HVAC system, providing humidity control throughout your entire living space. While they represent only about 4% of humidifiers sold in the United States, they offer several advantages:

• Consistent humidity levels throughout the home
• No need to refill water regularly
• Often more energy-efficient in the long run

However, these systems typically require professional installation and can be quite expensive upfront. They also need regular maintenance, including filter replacements at least twice a year.

Portable Humidifiers

Portable humidifiers are more common and come in various types:

1. Impeller Humidifiers: These cool mist humidifiers use a spinning disc to propel water through a mesh screen, creating a fine mist.
2. Evaporators: Another type of cool mist humidifier, evaporators use a fan to blow air through a wet wick, releasing moisture into the room.
3. Ultrasonic Humidifiers: These can produce either warm or cool mist by vibrating a diaphragm under the water level, creating tiny water droplets.
4. Steam Humidifiers: Simple and often inexpensive, these units boil water and release steam into the room.

Each type has its pros and cons, so consider factors like noise level, ease of cleaning, and your specific sinus needs when choosing.

Key Features to Consider When Buying a Humidifier for Sinus Problems

Selecting the right humidifier for your sinus issues involves more than just picking a type. Several key features can make a significant difference in both effectiveness and user experience:

Size and Coverage Area

Choosing the correct size is crucial. A humidifier that’s too small won’t provide enough moisture, while one that’s too large can create excess humidity, potentially promoting mold and bacteria growth. Consider the square footage of the room where you’ll be using the humidifier and choose accordingly.

Ease of Cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms. Look for models that are easy to disassemble and reassemble, with accessible parts that can be thoroughly cleaned.

Humidity Control Features

A built-in humidistat can automatically shut off the device when optimal humidity levels are reached, preventing over-humidification. This feature not only ensures comfort but also helps maintain a healthy environment.

Noise Level

If you plan to use the humidifier while sleeping, consider the noise level. Ultrasonic humidifiers are generally quieter than other types, but it’s always a good idea to test the noise level before purchasing if possible.

Additional Features

Some humidifiers come with extra features that may be beneficial for sinus problems:

• Warm mist options for added comfort
• Essential oil diffusers for aromatherapy
• UV light technology to kill bacteria and fungi
• Filters to remove impurities from the water

Maintaining Your Humidifier for Optimal Performance and Health

Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring your humidifier continues to provide relief for your sinus problems without introducing new health risks. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

Regular Cleaning

Clean your humidifier at least once a week, or more frequently if you use it daily. Use a mixture of white vinegar and water to remove mineral deposits, and disinfect with a diluted bleach solution or hydrogen peroxide.

Water Quality

Use distilled or demineralized water instead of tap water to reduce mineral buildup and the risk of dispersing microorganisms into the air.

Filter Replacement

If your humidifier has a filter, replace it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This helps maintain efficiency and prevents the growth of mold and bacteria.

Monitor Humidity Levels

Use a hygrometer to keep track of the humidity in your room. Aim for a level between 30% and 50% to avoid creating an environment conducive to dust mites, mold, and other allergens.

Top-Rated Humidifiers for Sinus Relief: Product Recommendations

Based on expert reviews and user feedback, here are some highly-rated humidifiers that may help with sinus problems:

1. Levoit LV600 Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier: This versatile model offers both warm and cool mist options and is easy to clean.
2. Homasy Cool Mist Humidifier: Ideal for smaller rooms, this model features an automatic shutoff and is simple to maintain.
3. Pure Enrichment MistAire Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier: Quiet and compact, this humidifier is perfect for bedrooms or small offices.
4. Honeywell HCM 350B Germ Free Humidifier: Suitable for larger spaces, this model includes UV technology to eliminate airborne bacteria and fungi.
5. Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier: Compatible with Vicks VapoSteam, this model can provide additional relief for congestion.
6. TaoTronics Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier: With a large capacity tank, this humidifier is suitable for extended use in larger rooms.

Remember to consider your specific needs, room size, and budget when choosing a humidifier.

Understanding Humidity Levels and Their Impact on Sinus Health

While humidifiers can provide significant relief for sinus problems, it’s essential to maintain appropriate humidity levels in your home. Too much humidity can be just as problematic as too little. So, what’s the ideal humidity level for sinus health?

Experts generally recommend keeping indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This range is optimal for several reasons:

• It’s high enough to prevent dryness in the nasal passages and throat
• It’s low enough to discourage the growth of mold, dust mites, and other allergens
• It helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment

Humidity levels above 60% can create an environment where mold and dust mites thrive, potentially exacerbating allergy and sinus symptoms. On the other hand, humidity levels below 30% can lead to excessive dryness, causing irritation in the nasal passages and throat.

To accurately monitor humidity levels in your home, consider investing in a hygrometer. This inexpensive device can help you maintain the ideal humidity range for your sinus health and overall comfort.

Combining Humidifier Use with Other Sinus Relief Techniques

While humidifiers can be highly effective in alleviating sinus discomfort, they work best as part of a comprehensive approach to sinus health. Consider incorporating these additional strategies to maximize relief:

Nasal Irrigation

Using a neti pot or saline nasal spray can help flush out mucus and allergens from your nasal passages. This can be particularly effective when combined with the moisturizing effects of a humidifier.

Steam Inhalation

Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or taking a hot shower can provide immediate relief from congestion. Some humidifiers offer warm mist options that can provide a similar effect.

Essential Oils

Certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus or peppermint, may help open up nasal passages when added to a humidifier. However, always check if your humidifier is compatible with essential oils before use.

Hydration

Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and keeps your nasal passages moist. Use your humidifier in conjunction with proper hydration for optimal results.

Air Purification

Combining a humidifier with an air purifier can help remove allergens and pollutants from the air, further reducing sinus irritation.

By integrating these techniques with regular humidifier use, you can create a more comprehensive strategy for managing your sinus problems and improving your overall respiratory health.

Potential Risks and Precautions When Using Humidifiers for Sinus Relief

While humidifiers can offer significant benefits for those suffering from sinus problems, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions. Improper use or maintenance of humidifiers can sometimes lead to unintended health issues.

Risk of Mold and Bacterial Growth

If not cleaned regularly and properly, humidifiers can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria. These microorganisms can then be dispersed into the air, potentially causing respiratory issues or exacerbating existing conditions.

To mitigate this risk:

• Clean your humidifier thoroughly at least once a week
• Use distilled or demineralized water to reduce mineral buildup
• Replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer
• Allow the humidifier to dry completely between uses

Over-Humidification

Excessive humidity can create an environment conducive to dust mites, mold, and other allergens. This can potentially worsen allergy symptoms and sinus problems.

To prevent over-humidification:

• Use a humidifier with a built-in humidistat
• Monitor room humidity with a separate hygrometer
• Aim to maintain humidity levels between 30% and 50%

Burns from Steam Humidifiers

Steam or warm mist humidifiers can pose a burn risk, especially for children or pets. If using this type of humidifier:

• Place it in a secure location away from foot traffic
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets
• Consider using a cool mist humidifier instead, especially in children’s rooms

White Dust

In areas with hard water, some humidifiers may release fine white dust into the air. While not typically harmful, this dust can be irritating to some individuals.

To reduce white dust:

• Use distilled or demineralized water
• Choose a humidifier with a demineralization cartridge or filter

By being aware of these potential risks and taking appropriate precautions, you can safely enjoy the benefits of humidifier use for your sinus 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.