Millions of Americans seek the relief of sinusitis remedies to stop the often times crippling effects of the symptoms. Sinusitis is the swelling of the nasal passages. Sinusitis can be due to a viral infection, but is also often attributed to allergy and irritation.
Neglecting to treat a sinus infection properly can lead to more serious conditions or may cause sinus problems to becoming chronic. When an infection is present, sinusitis is usually treated with antibiotics. Conditions involving allergy and irritation, however, can be more persistent.
If congestion is a problem, it is important to drink lots of liquid and stay well hydrated. This enables the sinuses to drain more effectively and helps to avoid infection.
Over the counter decongestants can help to reduce the amount of mucus in the sinus cavities, reducing the painful symptoms associated with sinusitis.
But if decongestants fail to resolve the problem, or if the issue does become chronic, many sinusitis sufferers also turn to the home based remedies of generations ago.
One such remedy involved inhaling steamed eucalyptus. This was done by adding a few drops of eucalyptus to bowl of boiling water, covering with a towel and inhaling the steam for several minutes.
Cayenne pepper has also long been believed to relieve sinus pressure. Sprinkling cayenne pepper on soup or drinking a teaspoon in a cup of hot was thought to be helpful.
Additionally, a home made nasal inhaler was often made by simply mixing salt into plain water.
Thyme has also been used for centuries for its antiseptic properties. Red thyme was thought to be particularly potent. One would mix a tablespoon of thyme into boiling water and drink several times a day.
In the winter, dry and heated air can be particularly irritating to those with sinus issues. And while these age old home remedies can come in handy, it is sometimes beneficial to use modern technology. Using a humidifier at night during sleep can alleviate these problems. It is important, however, to make sure the humidifier is cleaned frequently because using it can lead to mold and cause other allergic reactions.
Giving one's self a facial massage is another way to combat the symptoms and pressure associated with sinusitis. The sinuses begin at the forehead and reach down to the cheeks. When massaging this area, individuals usually begin above the eyebrows and work in towards the nose. Blowing the nose frequently during this process helps to remove some of the mucus as it is loosened by the massage.
Additionally breathing in the vapor from a hot steam shower can work wonders for loosening up the sinuses. This combined with a massage can be particularly effective.
Many coping with sinus problems may try some or all of these remedies to find relief. And many of these remedies are believed to be highly effective. It is important to remember to see the doctor if sinus problems persist, if only to rule out infection.
