Sinus Relief Tips

Sinusitis is a common sinus health condition caused by the inflammation of the air passages directly connected to the membranes of the nose. It causes a blockage due to post nasal drips and pressure within the interior bones of the nose. This results in tenderness in the open air passages and the membranes. It also makes the nostrils swell and the person gets a feeling of stuffiness in the head. It can cause mucous drainage from the nostrils, a runny nose, a lack of taste and/or smell, and puffy eyes.

Inhaling Steam and Increasing Moisture

• Inhaled steam relieves the drainage caused by sinusitis. Using a daily nasal irrigation also helps. Many over-the-counter sinus relief products like a natural saline spray used several times a day to keep the sinuses moist are readily available.

  The use of a humidifier or vaporizer releases more moisture in the air, which helps reduce sinus problems. This also promotes nasal relief while sleeping. The vaporizer or humidifier must be well maintained and always kept clean to prevent contamination and spread of bacteria or fungi. If a humidier or vaporizer is not readily available, placing a bowl of water near the radiator of the room can be an alternative.

Drinking Enough Fluids

• To keep moisture in the body, drinking plenty of fluids like water and and vitamin-rich fruit drinks is essential. Drinks containing caffeine like coffee, tea, cola and other fizzy drinks are not good options when trying to relieve sinusitis because these are diuretics and can cause further dehydration and further aggravate sinus problems. A natural antiseptic like honey and a natural source of Vitamin C like lemon can be dissolved in hot water or herbal and fruit tea as an alternative to regular tea with caffeine content.

Practicing Healthy Lifestyle

• Practicing a healthy lifestyle and regularly eating fruits and vegetables are beneficial for sinus relief. Taking papaya enzymes dissolved in the mouth between the cheek and gum about four times daily also helps reduce the swelling of the sinuses. Apart from inhaling steam and using a humidifier in the home or the work place, taking plenty of hot showers and using hot compresses also relieves the swelling of the sinuses. Exercising outdoors helps increase body circulation and clear sinus passages. Inside rooms must be comfortably warm, and if the temperature outside is not too cold, the bedroom window is best open to let fresh air circulate. When suffering from a blocked nose during bedtime, propping up with pillows help ease breathing.