Home Remedies for Sinus Inflammation

Sinus inflammation can be caused by viral infections, allergens and air pollutants. Quick treatment is necessary to prevent the inflammation from becoming a full-blown sinus infection. Several home remedies are effective in staving off infection and reducing the need to resort to prescription drugs.

Fluid Balance

• Maintain proper fluid balance in your body. When the body becomes dehydrated, the immune system has more difficulty fighting infection. Drink plenty of water and decaffeinated hot tea. Avoid caffeinated beverages, as they act as a diuretic, removing fluid from the body.

Steam Therapy

• Hot steam helps open up the sinus passages so that mucus--and bacteria--can drain. Take a hot shower or inhale the steam from a vaporizer or hot bowl of water. Add mentholated products to the water to increase drainage.

Pain Relief

• Besides over-the-counter drugs such as acetominophen and naproxen, natural home remedies can relieve the pain of sinus inflammation. Wet a washcloth or hand towel with hot water, wring it out and place it on your forehead for several minutes. The heat can help open sinus passages, relieving the pain and pressure. Rubbing the forehead can also promote drainage and help to ease the pain.

Diet

• Certain foods and beverages can contribute to the development of sinusitis, especially if you have undiagnosed food allergies. Dairy products are known to increase the production of mucus, which can result in nasal congestion and sinus inflammation. An allergist can perform skin tests to determine which foods should be avoided.

Exercise

• Exercise increases blood flow, which helps promote drainage of the sinus cavities. Regular exercise can also boost the body's immune response, which can help to prevent sinus inflammation in the first place.