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Remedies For Sinus Allergies

Sinus cavities are the hollow spaces surrounding the nasal passages around the nose. Sinuses produce mucus which then drain into the nose. These sinuses can become infected from bacteria, allergens and pollutants and cause mucus to become blocked. When sinuses become infected, they can turn into a sinus infection or sinusitis.

  1. Causes

    • Allergies such as hay fever can block the sinus cavities causing inflammation. Hay fever can be caused by pollen, dust and pet dander. Spores from mold or fungi can also cause allergic reactions.

    Symptoms

    • Most common symptoms of sinusitis are headache, facial pain, nasal stuffiness, sore throat, discolored nasal discharge and fever. Sinusitis can also have symptoms of itchy red eyes, sneezing and blue colored skin under the eyes.

    Treatment

    • Bacterial infection of the sinuses are treated with antibiotics such as amoxicillin. A viral infection of the sinuses does not need antibiotics and is treated to relieve symptoms. Nasal corticosteroids such as Flonase treat inflammation of the nasal passages. Saline nasal spray will rinse the nasal passages. Over-the-counter decongestants such as Sudafed can help reduce stuffiness in the nose. Aspirin, Tylenol and Advil can help with facial pain and headaches. Antihistamines such as Claritin can help relieve the itching of nose and eyes. Be careful with antihistamine use as they can make you drowsy.

    Home Remedies

    • Drink plenty of fluids to help with drainage. Steaming your sinus cavities can also help to promote drainage and ease pain. Breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water with a towel draped over your head or take a hot shower and breathe in the moist steam. Warm compresses applied to the face will also relieve pain and pressure. A bulb syringe can be used to rinse nasal passages with a solution of salt water. This helps clear out your sinuses. Finally, sleep with two pillows to elevate your head so sinuses can drain easier and reduce congestion.

      Avoid alcohol to lessen swelling in the lining of the nose passages.

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