What Produces Sinus Drainage?

Sinus drainage occurs continuously, usually without most people noticing it. The sinus cavities normally produce a thin mucus that carries dirt, pollen and other offenders out of the body. When irritation or inflammation occurs in those passages, however, the mucus thickens and has a difficult time draining properly. According to the Mayo Clinic, sinusitis that lasts longer than eight weeks or keeps returning is considered a chronic condition. Several options exist to encourage proper sinus drainage so that sinusitis does not become a long-term problem.

Fluids

• Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water and 100 percent fruit juice, throughout the day helps thin excess mucus so that it can properly drain out of the body. The Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding alcoholic beverages until a sinus infection has subsided because alcohol encourages swelling of the nasal cavities.

Steam

• A steam shower may help loosen mucus, as may standing over a steaming bowl of water with a towel over the head. The U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health recommend a steam treatment two to four times per day to treat sinusitis.

Humidifier

• A humidifier adds moisture into the air, especially effective in the dry winter months. Place a humidifier next to the bed or in the room where the most time is spent.

Saline Spray

• A nasal saline spray is an inexpensive way to add moisture directly into the nasal cavities. Follow the directions on the bottle; usually, one squirt in each nostril twice per day is enough to thin excessive mucus.

Warm Compress

• A warm, moist towel feels good on sinuses that are inflamed. It also helps restrict blood vessels. As the towel cools, re-wet it with very warm water and reapply as needed for relief.