How can you alleviate sinus pain without antibiotics. What natural remedies are most effective for sinus infections. Which home treatments do doctors recommend for sinusitis relief. How can you improve sinus mucus flow naturally.

Understanding Sinusitis: Causes and Symptoms

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the hollow spaces in the forehead, nose, and cheekbones known as sinuses. These cavities normally produce mucus to keep themselves moist and protect against germs, dust, and allergens. However, when inflamed, they become swollen and overproduce mucus, leading to pressure and pain in the face.

Common symptoms of sinusitis include:

• Facial pressure and pain
• Postnasal drip
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nasal congestion

Sinusitis often accompanies upper respiratory infections, allergies, and asthma. While antibiotics are sometimes prescribed, they’re not always necessary or effective, especially for viral sinus infections. This has led to increased interest in natural remedies for sinus relief.

The Power of Steam: A Simple Yet Effective Sinus Treatment

One of the most accessible and effective home remedies for sinus infections is steam inhalation. Dr. Anthony Del Signore, assistant professor of otolaryngology at Mount Sinai Beth Israel, explains that inhaling steam helps soothe sinus tissue and provides a sensation of clearing the sinuses.

How can you harness the power of steam for sinus relief? Here are several methods:

1. Take a hot shower and breathe in the steam
2. Sit in the bathroom while running a hot shower
3. Apply a warm, damp washcloth over your nose and cheeks
4. Create a steam tent by boiling water, removing it from heat, and inhaling the steam with a towel draped over your head

For enhanced benefits, consider adding a drop or two of essential oils to your steam treatment. Eucalyptus oil can help open nasal passages, while lavender or chamomile oils provide a calming effect.

Nasal Irrigation: Flushing Out Sinus Congestion

Nasal irrigation, also known as nasal lavage or sinus rinsing, is a method of using a saltwater solution to flush out mucus and germs from the sinus passages. This technique has gained popularity due to its effectiveness in alleviating sinus symptoms.

A review published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that nasal irrigation can improve sinus infection symptoms. But how does one perform nasal irrigation safely?

• Use a neti pot or nasal irrigation device
• Prepare a saltwater solution using distilled or sterilized water
• Tilt your head and gently pour the solution into one nostril, allowing it to drain out the other
• Repeat on the other side

It’s crucial to use distilled or properly sterilized water to avoid introducing harmful organisms into your sinus passages. You can sterilize tap water by boiling it for 3 to 5 minutes and then allowing it to cool before use.

Yoga for Sinus Relief: Gentle Poses to Promote Drainage

Yoga can be a surprising ally in the fight against sinus congestion. Certain poses can help drain mucus from sinus passageways, providing relief from pressure and discomfort. Leslie Kazadi, a certified yoga therapist, recommends poses that elevate the head without putting too much pressure on the sinuses.

One such pose is the Supported Reclined Cobbler’s Pose. Here’s how to perform it:

1. Place a bolster or rolled-up blanket under your back
2. Lie on your bed or floor with your back supported
3. Bend your knees and bring the soles of your feet together
4. Place yoga blocks or rolled towels under your knees for comfort
5. Relax your arms at your sides
6. Hold the pose for as long as comfortable

This gentle inversion can help promote sinus drainage while providing overall relaxation. Remember to come out of the pose slowly and carefully to avoid dizziness.

Hydration: The Underrated Hero in Sinus Health

Proper hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy sinuses and alleviating sinus infection symptoms. But why is hydration so important for sinus health?

When you’re well-hydrated, your body can produce thin, flowing mucus that easily drains from your sinuses. Conversely, dehydration can lead to thick, sticky mucus that’s more likely to become trapped in your sinuses, creating an environment ripe for bacterial growth.

To ensure proper hydration for sinus health:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day
• Consume hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables
• Limit dehydrating substances like caffeine and alcohol
• Consider warm liquids like herbal teas or broths for added sinus-soothing benefits

By maintaining good hydration, you’re not only supporting overall health but also giving your body the tools it needs to combat sinus infections naturally.

Essential Oils: Nature’s Decongestants

Essential oils have been used for centuries to alleviate various ailments, including sinus congestion. Certain oils possess natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties that can provide relief from sinus infection symptoms.

Which essential oils are most effective for sinus relief?

• Peppermint oil: Contains menthol, which can help open nasal passages
• Eucalyptus oil: Known for its decongestant properties
• Tea tree oil: Possesses antimicrobial properties that may help fight infection
• Lavender oil: Can reduce inflammation and promote relaxation

To use essential oils for sinus relief, you can:

1. Add a few drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam
2. Use in a diffuser to disperse the oils into the air
3. Mix with a carrier oil and apply to the chest or under the nose (always dilute properly and test for skin sensitivity first)

While essential oils can be effective, it’s important to use them safely and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant.

Dietary Adjustments: Foods That Fight Sinus Infections

Your diet can play a significant role in managing sinus infections and promoting overall sinus health. Certain foods have properties that can help reduce inflammation, boost immune function, and thin mucus, all of which can contribute to sinus relief.

What foods should you incorporate into your diet for sinus health?

• Garlic and onions: Contain allicin, a compound with antimicrobial properties
• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and decongestant effects
• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound
• Citrus fruits: High in vitamin C, which can boost immune function
• Pineapple: Contains bromelain, an enzyme that may help reduce sinus inflammation

In addition to incorporating these foods, it’s also important to avoid or limit foods that may exacerbate sinus issues. These include:

• Dairy products: Can increase mucus production in some people
• Refined sugars: May promote inflammation
• Alcohol: Can lead to dehydration and nasal congestion

Remember, while dietary changes can support sinus health, they should be part of a comprehensive approach to managing sinus infections.

Spicy Foods: Friend or Foe to Sinus Health?

Spicy foods have a reputation for clearing sinuses, but their effects can be more complex. On one hand, the capsaicin in spicy foods can stimulate mucus flow and provide temporary relief. On the other hand, some people find that spicy foods irritate their sinuses and worsen symptoms.

If you find that spicy foods provide relief, consider incorporating mild to moderately spicy dishes into your diet during a sinus infection. However, if you notice increased irritation or discomfort, it’s best to avoid spicy foods until your symptoms improve.

The Role of Humidifiers in Sinus Health

Dry air can exacerbate sinus issues by drying out nasal passages and thickening mucus. This is where humidifiers can play a crucial role in managing sinus infections and promoting overall sinus health.

How do humidifiers benefit sinus health?

• Add moisture to the air, preventing nasal passages from drying out
• Help keep mucus thin and flowing, facilitating easier drainage
• Can reduce inflammation in the nasal and sinus passages
• May help prevent the growth of certain bacteria and viruses that thrive in dry conditions

When using a humidifier for sinus relief, keep these tips in mind:

1. Clean your humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth
2. Use distilled water to avoid introducing minerals or contaminants into the air
3. Monitor humidity levels in your home, aiming for 30-50% relative humidity
4. Consider using a cool-mist humidifier, which is generally safer and easier to clean than warm-mist models

While humidifiers can be beneficial, it’s important to use them properly and maintain them well to avoid potential negative effects on indoor air quality.

Natural Additives for Enhanced Humidifier Benefits

To boost the sinus-soothing effects of your humidifier, consider adding a few drops of essential oils to the water. Eucalyptus, peppermint, or lavender oils can provide additional relief. However, ensure your humidifier is designed for use with essential oils, as some models may be damaged by these additives.

Sleep Positioning: Optimizing Rest for Sinus Relief

The way you sleep can significantly impact your sinus health, especially during a sinus infection. Proper sleep positioning can help promote sinus drainage and reduce congestion, leading to more restful sleep and faster recovery.

What sleep positions are best for sinus relief?

• Elevated head position: Use an extra pillow to keep your head slightly elevated
• Side sleeping: Can help one side of your nasal passages drain more effectively
• Avoid sleeping on your back: This position can worsen postnasal drip

In addition to positioning, consider these sleep hygiene tips for better sinus health:

1. Use hypoallergenic bedding to reduce potential allergens
2. Keep your bedroom clean and dust-free
3. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to support overall immune function
4. Consider using a wedge pillow for a more stable elevated position

Remember, while proper sleep positioning can provide relief, it’s just one aspect of managing sinus infections. Combine this approach with other natural remedies for best results.

The Importance of a Clean Sleep Environment

Your bedroom environment plays a crucial role in sinus health. Regularly washing bedding in hot water, using dust mite-proof covers on pillows and mattresses, and keeping pets out of the bedroom can significantly reduce allergens that may trigger or worsen sinus issues.

Exercise and Sinus Health: Finding the Right Balance

Regular exercise can have both positive and negative effects on sinus health. While moderate exercise can boost overall immune function and promote better sinus drainage, intense workouts during a sinus infection might exacerbate symptoms.

How can you incorporate exercise into your sinus health routine?

• Engage in gentle exercises like walking or yoga when experiencing mild symptoms
• Practice breathing exercises to improve nasal airflow
• Consider low-impact activities that don’t involve bending over or sudden head movements
• Stay well-hydrated during and after exercise

It’s important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion when dealing with a sinus infection. If exercise worsens your symptoms, it’s best to rest and focus on other natural remedies until you feel better.

Outdoor Exercise Considerations for Sinus Health

When exercising outdoors, be mindful of environmental factors that can impact sinus health. Pollen, air pollution, and extreme temperatures can all affect your sinuses. Consider checking local air quality reports and pollen forecasts before engaging in outdoor activities, especially if you’re prone to sinus issues or allergies.

Stress Management: An Overlooked Aspect of Sinus Health

While often overlooked, stress can have a significant impact on sinus health. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to sinus infections and other illnesses. Additionally, stress can lead to behaviors that may worsen sinus symptoms, such as poor sleep habits or unhealthy eating.

How can you manage stress for better sinus health?

• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
• Consider mindfulness practices or yoga
• Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional when needed

By managing stress effectively, you’re not only supporting your overall health but also giving your body the resources it needs to fight off sinus infections and maintain healthy sinus function.

The Mind-Body Connection in Sinus Health

Emerging research suggests a strong connection between mental health and physical well-being, including sinus health. Practices like mindfulness meditation have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which could potentially benefit those suffering from chronic sinus issues. While more research is needed in this area, incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your sinus health routine may provide additional benefits beyond traditional remedies.

As we continue to explore natural remedies for sinus infections, it’s clear that a holistic approach combining various strategies often yields the best results. From steam inhalation and nasal irrigation to dietary adjustments and stress management, these natural methods offer relief without the need for antibiotics in many cases. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen, as some sinus infections may require medical intervention. By incorporating these natural remedies into your routine, you can take a proactive approach to sinus health and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of sinus infections.

7 Natural Home Remedies for Sinus Infection and Pain

Certain home remedies are worth trying before you turn to antibiotics for a sinus infection.

Medically Reviewed

Known as Supported Reclined Cobbler’s Pose, this yoga posture may ease sinus infection symptoms without putting too much pressure on your sinuses.Alamy

Whether you have a single sinus infection or recurrent sinusitis, the pain and pressure in your face is enough to send you running for medication.

But researchers caution against taking unnecessary antibiotics. Most sinus problems are caused by viruses, which antibiotics don’t treat. Those caused by bacteria may not improve any faster with antibiotics.

Fortunately, a variety of natural remedies for sinus infections and pain can effectively provide relief. Some of these approaches are even recommended by physicians, who say that getting sinus mucus flowing can help you feel better while your body successfully fights the infection.

What Is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, which are hollow spaces in the forehead, nose and cheekbones. The lining of these spaces produces mucus to keep them moist and to protect against germs, dust, and allergens. When sinuses are inflamed, they become swollen and produce too much mucus. The buildup of mucus in the sinuses causes pressure and pain in the face, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

People with upper respiratory infections, allergies, and asthma may also have sinusitis, with pressure and pain around the sinuses, postnasal drip, headache, and fatigue.

RELATED: What Are the Common Cold and Flu? Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Easy Natural Remedies Help Mucus Flow

In many cases, sinus home remedies — including those things your mother told you to do — can effectively improve inflamed sinuses, says Anthony Del Signore, MD, assistant professor of otolaryngology and director of rhinology and endoscopic skull base surgery at Mount Sinai Beth Israel in New York City.

These treatments soothe irritated passageways and increase the flow of mucus so you don’t feel so stuffed up, he explains.

Here are seven natural ways to ease sinus infections:

1. Heat Up (or Steam Up) Your Face

One of the most effective home remedies for sinus infections is to warm up and moisturize your sinus passageways.

“Inhaling steam helps to soothe the sinus tissue and gives you the feeling of clearing them out a little,” Dr. Del Signore says.

You can simply stand in the shower or even sit in the bathroom when the shower is running. You can also place a warm washcloth over your nose and cheeks while you lie on your bed.

For the most potent steam treatment, boil a pot of water, then take it off the heat. Tent a towel over your head and bend over the pot to inhale the steam. Be careful not to start out too close to the hot water and to keep your eyes closed. As the liquid cools, you can move in a little, but only to the point where it remains comfortable.

You might add a drop or two of essential oils; eucalyptus oil can help open the nose, while lavender essential oil or chamomile essential oil will calm you.

RELATED: Do I Have a Cold or the Flu?

2. Irrigate Your Sinuses to Help Ease Symptoms and Prevent Sinus Infections

Nasal irrigation is basically a method of using a saltwater solution to force out germs and plugged-up mucus residing in the sinus passages. Other terms for this are nasal wash, nasal douche, or lavage. Some people refer to it by one of the popular devices used to get the water in, a neti pot.

A small number of studies has found irrigation can improve symptoms, including one review published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.

Experts caution that it is important to use distilled or sterile water (you can sterilize tap water yourself by boiling for 3 to 5 minutes, then cooling) to avoid the rare possibility of introducing a parasite into your sinus passageways.

RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Coronavirus

3. Yoga Can Help Drain Mucus From Sinus Passageways

If you are in the midst of a sinus infection, a supported yoga pose where your head is elevated will help you feel better without putting too much pressure on your sinuses, says Leslie Kazadi, a certified yoga therapist who teaches in Los Angeles and online at YogisAnonymous. com.

RELATED: Yoga 101: The Poses, the Types, the Health Benefits, and if You’re a Beginner, How to Get Started on the Mat

One pose Kazadi suggests is Supported Reclined Cobbler’s Pose.

How to Try Supported Reclined Cobbler’s Yoga Pose

1. Place a bolster or rolled up blanket under your back and lie on your bed or floor.
2. Bend your knees and bring the soles of your feet together; you can place yoga blocks or rolled towels under your knees to make this more comfortable.
3. Relax your arms out to your sides. Remain here for as long as is comfortable.
4. Come out of the pose by rolling off the bolster or blanket and onto your side, then pressing your hands against the floor to sit up.

4. Consider Using a Supplement, Such as the Enzyme Bromelain

Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in the pineapple plant that is sold as a dietary supplement. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), you can get it as a powder, cream, tablet, or capsule, sometimes in combination with other ingredients.

Bromelain has been studied for sinusitis because it is thought to be effective in taming inflammation. A small number of double-blind studies has found bromelain improves sinus symptoms more than a placebo.

Research indicates that oral doses of bromelain are typically from 500 to 1,000 milligrams (mg) per day, but some people take 2,000 mg.

Although bromelain is natural, that doesn’t mean there can’t be side effects. The NCCIH cautions that some people experience allergic reactions, GI issues, menstrual problems, and an increased heart rate.

RELATED: Do You Need a Vitamin D Supplement? Everything to Know

5. Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables contain powerful antioxidants like quercetin, a natural plant component found in everything from onions and apples to green tea and red wine. Like many plant ingredients, it is an antioxidant. For sinus problems, quercetin has also been found to stabilize the cells in the body that release histamine — the chemical that stimulates mucus secretion in the sinuses.

Quercetin has also been found to be helpful for sinusitis, with a typical oral dose of 400 to 500 mg taken three times per day.

6. Drinking Liquids Help Ease Sinus Pain and Loosens Congestion

Staying hydrated keeps your sinuses moist so you feel better, and it also decreases the thickness of sinus mucus so it flows out more easily, Del Signore says.

“Everyone is guilty of not drinking enough water,” he says, recommending people get from six to eight 8-ounces glasses every day.

Steer clear of too many caffeinated or alcoholic drinks, which can cause dehydration.

RELATED: 7 Natural Flu Remedies That Actually Work

7. Eliminate Dairy Products

Casein and whey proteins in dairy products may trigger allergies and excess mucus production in some people. If you have recurrent sinusitis, try eliminating all dairy to see if it makes a difference. Delicious dairy substitutes like cashew, almond, hemp, and oat milk products are widely available.

How to Tell if These Remedies Are Not Working

You will know if these remedies are effective because you will begin to feel better and your sinuses will be less congested.

However, unlike with antibiotics where symptoms start to diminish quickly, natural remedies typically take longer to work. So you should continue to do these remedies regularly for at least a week or two before determining if they are working.

When to See a Doctor for Sinus Issues

If your symptoms persist more than one to two weeks, you should consult with your physician.

You’ll want to check with your doctor even sooner if you have a severe case of a sinus infection — including a high fever, swelling around the eyes, and red and inflamed skin, among other symptoms, Del Signore says.

In this case, or if your symptoms do not clear up within two weeks, your doctor will likely prescribe an antibiotic.

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Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

• Treating Acute Sinusitis. InformedHealth.org. October 18, 2018.
• Sinus Infection (Sinusitis). Cleveland Clinic. June 4, 2020.
• Little P, Stuart B, Mullee M, et al. Effectiveness of Steam Inhalation and Nasal Irrigation for Chronic or Recurrent Sinus Symptoms in Primary Care: a Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial. Canadian Medical Association Journal. September 20, 2016.
• Bromelain. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. May 2020.
• Asher BF, Seidman M, Snyderman C. Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Otolaryngology. The Laryngoscope. January 2, 2009.
• Helms S, Miller AL. Natural Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis [PDF]. Alternative Medicine Review. September 2006.

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8 Ways to Clear Up Sinus Congestion| Everyday Health

You don’t have to keep living with the symptoms of a sinus infection. Here are eight smart tips from both experts and readers that’ll help get you breathing easier in no time.

By Madeline R. Vann, MPHMedically Reviewed by Judy Mouchawar, MD, MSPH

Reviewed: December 9, 2015

Medically Reviewed

Corbis

Sinus congestion may make you feel miserable, but managing it can be easy — if you find the right treatment, that is. First, it helps to figure out what’s triggering the congestion. “You can treat the symptoms, but you are going to be chasing your tail if you don’t know what’s causing them,” says Ian Alexander, MD, an otolaryngologist and founder of the National Sinus Institute, which has clinics in New Mexico and Texas. Common causes include allergies and infections, but your congestion could also be caused by structural problems with your nose and sinuses. Here are some short- and long-term solutions that can help ease congestion and relieve sinusitis symptoms.

Steam It Up

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Whether you’re taking a warm shower or just inhaling the air from a bowl of soup, steam can help break up congestion and give you some relief from your symptoms. “Steam humidifies dry mucus and helps you move it out,” says Robert Kern, MD, an otolaryngologist at Northwestern Medical Group in Chicago, Illinois. But the relief is only temporary, so it’s important to identify what’s causing your symptoms, so you can tackle the real problem.

Rinse With Salt Water

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The irritants from dust, pollution, and fragrances can make their way into your sinuses and cause congestion. To get rid of these irritants, use a saltwater saline rinse — either an over-the-counter saline nasal spray or a saline rinse from a neti pot, which is designed to pour saline water through your sinuses, says Dr. Kern.

As Phillip Tanner, 44, of San Francisco, California, says, “I use very warm water and a super-saturated hypertonic salt solution. It’s definitely an odd experience, even once you get used to doing it, but I find that it really does help my symptoms.”

Avoid Cigarette Smoke

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Cigarettes and secondhand smoke can increase your risk for chronic sinus congestion — so much so that research published in the International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology in February 2014 urged physicians to do a better job of asking people with chronic sinus congestion if they are exposed to cigarette smoke.

“Smoking makes sinusitis more difficult to manage, if you are prone to it,” says Dr. Alexander. And, if you need surgery to treat chronic congestion, he says, a smoking habit can make it harder for you to recover from the procedure — and increase your risk of needing a second surgery.

Use a Nasal Steroid Spray

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Available over the counter, these sprays can help reduce the inflammation that adds to congestion. “Sometimes the inflammatory reaction is self-perpetuating,” Kern says. The 2015 sinus inflammation and congestion treatment guidelines from the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Foundation advises using local steroid treatments and, if necessary, antibiotics to break the cycle.

And while nasal steroid sprays and saline sprays are both helpful, Kern stresses that other nasal sprays, such as decongestant sprays, can make the problem worse if you rely on them consistently.

Get Your Allergies Under Control

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Katie Stavert, 30, of Los Alamos, New Mexico, has already had two procedures to open up her sinuses, but she still needs to take allergy medications and saline solutions if she wants to keep her sinuses clear. “I’m allergic to everything,” she says, “but especially sagebrush and trees.”

Allergies can definitely contribute to sinus congestion. Jeff Culp, MD, an allergist and assistant professor of medicine at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville, Tennessee, tells people to figure out what’s triggering their allergies, then plan appropriately — either by taking allergy medication or avoiding the allergens altogether.

Lose Weight

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People who are obese may be more likely to have allergies or chronic sinusitis than people who aren’t, according to research published in August 2013 in the journal Laryngoscope. It’s possible that losing weight can improve your symptoms — and, in fact, it worked for health coach Rob Portinga, 48, of Tacoma, Washington. His problems with congestion began to fade after undergoing bariatric surgery in 2009 (he eventually lost 150 pounds) and continued to subside once he starting using a neti pot and other healthy lifestyle habits.

Try Complementary Therapy

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Chronic sinus infections have plagued Amy Kuretsky, 33, an acupuncturist in Minneapolis, Minnesota, all her life, and she chalked it up to the smoke, dry air, and her too-few hours of shut eye. But learning Chinese medicine and acupuncture helped her find relief.

“As soon as I feel like the congestion in my nose begins to feel like pressure in my sinuses, I go get acupuncture from a colleague, or do it to myself, get a big bowl of pho (Vietnamese bone broth soup), and take my favorite Chinese herbs,” she says. Preliminary research published in March 2012 in the Archives of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery showed that an eight-week acupuncture program can help improve certain symptoms and the quality of life in people with chronic sinusitis.

Consider Surgery

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If you’re still congested despite trying these methods, your doctor might recommend surgery. Rapid improvements in technology now make it possible for many people to have a procedure in their doctor’s office and return quickly to work and life, says Kern.

That’s what finally gave Alyssa Halter, 27, of Richmond, Virginia, the congestion relief she had been seeking. “I had a deviated septum, wide turbinates, and cells blocking my sinuses,” she says. “So my procedure involved a septoplasty to straighten my septum, a turbinate reduction on both sides to widen my nasal passages, and sinus surgery to clean out my sinus passageways.” Was it worth it? “I’d do it again 100 times over,” she says.

Treatment of sinusitis at home with folk remedies

1. Causes of sinusitis
2. Symptoms
3. Methods of treatment
4. Folk remedies
5. Prophylaxis

Causes of sinusitis

Sinusitis – inflammation of the mucous membrane of one of the sinuses. The most common causes are various bacteria, infection with a virus, as well as the ingress of a fungus or an allergen. Sinusitis is of three types: catarrhal, purulent and mixed. The first type is characterized by swelling of the sinuses and mucous secretions , the second – the appearance of pus and fever. The mixed type is accompanied by the same signs, as well as mucous and purulent discharge at the same time.

Inflammation can be associated with the following problems:

• anomalies in the structure of the nose;
• injuries and deformities of the nose;
• adenoids;
• nasal polyps;
• chronic diseases of various organs and systems;
• allergy;
• severe forms of SARS;
• frequent colds;
• poor oral hygiene and delayed visits to the dentist.

There is a group of people who are more prone to sinusitis and the development of complications. This includes:

• children from 9 years of age;
• elderly people;
• asthmatics;
• patients with head or face injuries;
• diabetics;
• HIV-infected;
• people suffering from hormonal disruptions;
• patients with hypothyroidism, cystic fibrosis, Kartagener’s syndrome;

90,003 Aircraft passengers with severe pressure surges.

Symptoms

Nasal congestion, pain, and swelling of the nasal mucosa are local symptoms of sinusitis. Common symptoms include weakness, fever, headache.

Depending on the localization, the disease is divided into the following types: sinusitis (inflammation develops in the maxillary sinuses), frontal sinusitis (affects the frontal sinuses and is dangerous in terms of complications), ethmoiditis (the sinusitis process is located in the ethmoid bone), sphenoiditis (the sphenoid sinus is affected).

The consequences of sinusitis can be. As complications, diseases such as:

• increased intraocular pressure;
• purulent meningitis;
• asymmetry of facial muscles;
• chronic headache.

In children with sinusitis, inflammation of the middle ear, a decrease in immunity, and a prolonged wet cough are often noted.

Methods of treatment

Road to recovery for sinusitis everyone has their own, it all depends on the severity of the disease and the health of the patient’s body. Treatment includes several types of therapy, each of which is aimed at eliminating individual components of the pathological process.

One of the effective remedies for sinusitis is washing the nose with preparations based on sea water. They are suitable for everyone: small children, adults, and the elderly. Such saline solutions cleanse the mucous membrane and moisturize it, and they are easy to find in every pharmacy. There are no contraindications for the drugs, as well as side effects. Therefore, many people always have Sialor Aqua, Aqualor, Aquamaris or Physiomer in their home first aid kit.

To relieve inflammation, doctors prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, for example, “Sialor” based on silver ions. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, and also helps to reduce mucosal edema.

Another of the most common types of complex therapy for sinusitis is vasoconstrictor drugs. They relieve swelling of the mucosa and make breathing easier. Such drugs as “Nazol”, “Tizin”, “Vibrocil”, “Otrivin”, “Dlyanos” and others have proven themselves well.

It is important to remember that 3 days is the maximum period of their use without first consulting a doctor.

For sinusitis of allergic etiology ( allergic rhinitis ), specialists prescribe antiallergic drugs, for example, Erius, loratadine.

If microbes are the causative agent of the disease, then antibiotics are prescribed. Most often, broad-spectrum drugs are prescribed for sinusitis, such as amoxicillin, azithromycin, clarithromycin.

In some cases, for the effective treatment of sinusitis, surgical intervention is necessary: ​​mucus and pus accumulated in the sinuses is pumped out through special punctures. After that, the sinuses are washed with an antiseptic.

Physiotherapy is prescribed as supporting procedures in complex treatment. These are heating, currents, exposure to a laser and a magnet.

Folk remedies

It is important to remember that folk remedies therapy is effective in combination with competent treatment prescribed by a specialist.

So, there are several popular home treatments for sinusitis. Washing in the first place of this rating. Aloe juice is often used: it relieves inflammation and destroys bacteria.

You can also rinse your nose with saline. For preparation, 1 tablespoon of sea salt is diluted in 0.5 liters of water at a comfortable temperature.

There are two options for washing the sinuses at home. Above the sink, you need to turn your head to the side, bend over, carefully inject the solution into one nostril with a syringe without a needle, wait until the water flows out of the second. Turn your head to the other side and repeat the procedure. Instead of a syringe, you can use a small teapot with a narrow spout, or simply take a salt solution in your palm and draw it in with your nose, hold your nostrils with your hand, tilt your head to the side, exhale sharply through your nose. Both schemes are equally effective, but the latter are outdated and are not recommended for use.

It is important to note that nasal lavage is associated with a high risk of inflammation, especially in young children.

During the procedure, water under pressure enters the nose, as well as the nasopharynx. If the liquid does not have time to leave through the nose and mouth (which happens if there is a lot of water or the person has a stuffy nose, therefore, the water cannot come out due to swelling of the mucous membrane), it goes into the auditory tube. The result is an inflammatory process that turns into acute otitis media. The anatomical features of children increase the risk of spreading the inflammatory process in case of water entering the auditory canal.

Also, when flushing, there is always a risk of aspiration (inhalation) of the solution, which is dangerous for airway obstruction, especially in young children.

You can make nasal drops at home. It can be just Kalanchoe juice (2 drops 3 times a day for 10 days) or a mummy solution. Mix 0.2 g of mummy with a spoonful of boiled warm water and 0.5 tsp. glycerin. Bury 1-2 drops in each nostril 3 times a day.

Propolis is effective – for 1 spoon of propolis tincture, take sea buckthorn oil in a ratio of 1: 1. Bury 2-3 drops in each nostril 3 times a day.

With sinusitis, when the acute period is over, inhalations can be done. Patients inhale steam inhaled with herbs, such as chamomile. If there is also a cough, you can use mint and eucalyptus.

What else can you do to help yourself at home? You can make a mixture of eucalyptus and olive oils, apply it to the nose area a couple of times a day.

You can take a strengthening cocktail that will help the body during the period of illness. For 2 tablespoons of turmeric, lemon juice, a pinch of red pepper, 1 tablespoon of honey, add the optimal amount of water (at least 0.5 l) and drink 2-3 times a day. Hot echinacea tea is also a great tonic. Red or black pepper added to food stimulates the cleansing of the nasal passages, however, increases the pulse rate, which is important to consider for patients with cardiovascular diseases.

It is important to remember that home treatment should not be the only one, you need to consult a doctor in a timely manner. In addition, with regard to home treatment and folk remedies, it is better to consult a specialist.

Prophylaxis

The main prevention of sinusitis is to avoid hypothermia and not catch a cold. You should always choose a wardrobe according to the weather.

It is important to remember that sinusitis can be a consequence of mistakes on the part of patients: if you do not pay attention to a prolonged runny nose, do not consult a doctor or delay treatment and do not follow the doctor’s instructions, then there is a risk of complications.

In order not to bring SARS to the consequences of sinusitis, it is also necessary to take care of your body in advance, lead a healthy lifestyle and strengthen your immune system: give up junk food, play sports, drink more pure water and strengthening herbal teas.

It is especially important to take care of the prevention of influenza and SARS in children , because they are most susceptible to seasonal diseases.

Sinusitis – therapy with folk remedies. How to cure sinusitis? Acute sinusitis

Very often, diseases of a viral or infectious nature are accompanied by a runny nose. If it is not treated in time, the risk of developing sinusitis will increase. It is usually divided into acute and chronic. Curing sinusitis is much harder than the common cold. However, if you approach the solution of this difficult problem with all responsibility, then you can get rid of any form of the disease using reliable methods of traditional medicine.

General Description

Sinusitis is an inflammatory disease of the nasal sinuses such as the ethmoid, frontal, maxillary or sphenoid sinuses. Bacteria and microbes that penetrate one of them cause an inflammatory process.

Varieties of sinusitis

1. Frontitis – one or two frontal sinuses are affected in this process.
2. Sinusitis is an infectious disease accompanied by inflammation in the maxillary sinus.
3. Etmoiditis is a type of sinusitis in which inflammation is concentrated in the lattice cells.
4. Sphenoiditis is an inflammation of the sphenoid sinus.

Main treatments

Regardless of the principle of treatment (drugs or folk remedies), it is extremely important to follow the leading therapeutic rules:

Therapy of acute sinusitis at home

• at the very first symptoms of the disease, it is recommended to refrain from walking in the fresh air for several days;
• to alleviate the condition and ensure the removal of swelling from the sinuses, you should double the fluid intake;
• if the diagnosis is confirmed, it is recommended to start treatment with hot foot baths and inhalations, the only exception is purulent sinusitis, in which it is strictly forbidden to resort to any warming heat;
• in order to effectively clear the nasal cavity of accumulated mucus, the usual blowing of the nose will not be enough. How to cure sinusitis under this condition? It is necessary to rinse the nose several times a day with a variety of solutions.

Sinusitis. Treatment with folk remedies

Before you start getting rid of the disease, you need to understand that taking antibacterial chemotherapy drugs does not help cure the disease in all cases. If you take antibiotics without special need, then they will not bring any benefit, and even, on the contrary, will reduce immunity. Such therapy is indicated only for those patients who have a bacterial nature of the disease.

Vasoconstrictor drugs are also best avoided for the treatment of sinusitis. The action of this medicine is to rid a person of edema, but not to treat the disease. The use of such drugs for more than a week is contraindicated.

The most harmless ways

Based on the foregoing, folk remedies for sinusitis can be safely called the most reliable and safe method of treating the disease. Despite this, this principle should not be resorted to without consulting a doctor.

Alternative medicine has a wide range of ways to effectively treat sinusitis. Traditional methods of treatment are as follows:

• Get rid of sinusitis with potatoes. To do this, this vegetable is boiled until tender. After it is kneaded and breathe over the container, after covering the head with a towel. This should be done carefully to avoid burns to the nose.
• A mixture of water, iodine, and potassium permanganate is effective in rinsing the cavity. How to cure sinusitis in this way? In this case, you will need a glass of water, in which you should add three drops of potassium permanganate and the same amount of iodine. The solution is thoroughly mixed and used as directed during the course of treatment.
• Getting rid of the disease using radish. One medium-sized vegetable is chopped on a grater. Then juice is squeezed out of it, which is instilled into the nose two drops three times a day.

Chronic sinusitis: how to cure without surgery completely at home. ..

How to treat sinusitis with folk remedies: other methods

Getting rid of with fir oil. It is purchased at a pharmacy and used for inhalation. For this type of treatment, oil is added to boiling water. The patient should then slowly inhale the fir vapor until the fir no longer smells.

Folk treatment of sinusitis with a 2% mummy solution. It can be bought at a pharmacy and used as regular nasal drops. Along with this, it is recommended to take a mummy-based solution inside. The duration of the course of treatment is approximately ten to twelve days.

Juice from onion, aloe, and cyclamen roots is a reliable remedy for sinusitis. For this method, all the ingredients are crushed and juice is made from them. After that, all the juices are combined together one teaspoonful, the mixture is mixed. At the end, add a teaspoon of Vishnevsky’s ointment. The agent lubricates the sinuses. This procedure is repeated three times a day for 2 weeks.

The use of bay leaf is infinitely effective in frontal sinusitis – one of the varieties of the disease. To do this, ten leaves are poured with three liters of boiling water. Then all this must be put on the stove and simmer for about seven minutes. The tincture is used for steam inhalation. The duration of the course is a week.

Chronic sinusitis

The recipe for getting rid of this pathology can also be found in the books of healers. Chronic sinusitis, which is treated with folk remedies by chewing small pieces of honeycomb, can be easily eliminated in this way. The following methods are also used:

1. Sinusitis, the treatment of which is quite effective with folk remedies, is perfectly cured with the help of dry menthol. The substance is used as a component for inhalation. To do this, menthol is dissolved in water heated to a boil and, covering your head with a towel, gently breathe over the steam.
2. Onion juice is a wonderful remedy for chronic sinusitis. Treatment with folk remedies is as follows: a medium-sized onion must be chopped, and then juiced out of it. The resulting liquid is poured with hot water and mixed. After cooling the onion solution, add a tablespoon of bee honey to it. Leave the product in this state for approximately three hours. After it is used to wash the nasal cavity.
3. Healing with spruce resin. To do this, two hundred grams of raw materials must be brought to a boil. After adding fifty grams of vitriol, the same amount of olive oil and one small chopped onion. Everything is thoroughly mixed. The mass is used as a compress.

Acute sinusitis

In the treatment of this type of disease, propolis infusion, which is used as an inhalation, is very helpful. Add one teaspoon of alcohol infusion to hot water. You should breathe until steam comes out of the vessel.

Inhalation with apple cider vinegar and garlic. Acute sinusitis, which is treated with folk remedies using these components, is perfectly healed thanks to the method described below. Five cloves of garlic should be crushed, pour one glass of boiling water, after which a teaspoon of vinegar must be added to the solution. Everyone mixes and breathes over the steam, covering their heads with a towel. This procedure should be carried out daily. Garlic has strong bactericidal properties that can save a person from staphylococcus and streptococcus.

Advanced acute sinusitis, which is treated with folk remedies using a solution of iodine water and sea salt, can lead to severe pathologies. To prepare the product, you should take a container. You need to add water to it, then six drops of iodine and the same amount of potassium permanganate. Thoroughly mix the resulting mixture by adding one teaspoon of sea salt. The finished solution is necessary to rinse the nasal cavity. The mixture is drawn in through the nostrils and spit out through the mouth.

Treatment with mint, cinnamon and green tea. To do this, based on the ingredients, you need to brew tea and drink the liquid in slow sips. The tool will help relieve intense headache, which often occurs with acute sinusitis.

Herbal use

St. John’s wort is often used to relieve the symptoms of sinusitis. To do this, a teaspoon of medicinal herbs is poured with a glass of boiling water. After that, the liquid is used as a means for washing the nasal cavity. It is also recommended to take brewed St. John’s wort inside. In this case, the solution is drunk for twelve days.

Very effective tincture based on elder flowers. To make it, one tablespoon of raw materials should be poured with hot water and left for half an hour, covered with a lid. It is allowed to add honey to the decoction.

A tincture of wild clover flowers will relieve headaches. One tablespoon of raw materials is brewed with a glass of boiling water and left for about twenty-five minutes. Infusion is recommended to drink half a cup three times a day.

If the disease is accompanied by a cough, then any decoction can be supplemented with a teaspoon of plantain herb, oregano or sage.

Celandine juice is an excellent helper for purulent sinusitis. The plant is crushed in a meat grinder, juice is squeezed out of it. The liquid is placed for a week in a dark, cool place for fermentation. After seven days, the juice can be used by instilling in both nostrils for a month.

Prevention of sinusitis

Any disease is much easier to prevent than to cure. Sinusitis is no exception. Therefore, in order to prevent its occurrence, it is worth following simple rules:

• do not forget to ventilate the room and prevent inhalation of cold air;
• avoid hypothermia;
• carry out hardening procedures regularly;
• do breathing exercises;
• avoid inhalation of tobacco smoke, dust, and contact with various substances that can provoke allergies;
• drink as much liquid as possible.

Conclusion

If sinusitis is not treated in time, it can become a significant problem for the health of the human body. Ultimately, such complex diseases as meningitis, purulent otitis media, osteomyelitis and others can develop.