Millions of Americans suffer from sinus infections every year. The irritating and painful symptoms can cause sufferers to have issues in many aspects of their lives. From relationships to work, chronic sinus infections can have devastating effects. Many have found success in relieving their symptoms using home remedies.
What are the symptoms of a sinus infection?
There are several different types of sinus infections. The severity of symptoms ranges and are unique to each individual sufferer. Sometimes sinus infections may clear up on their own. For those who are not as lucky, they may have to have more permanent treatment options. Many who are struggling with sinusitis are usually struggling with symptoms of a severe sinus infection such as:
- Congestion
- Fatigue or difficulty sleeping
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Headache and facial pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Post nasal drip
- And more
Not only do many suffer with these painful symptoms when they have chronic sinusitis, they often begin to worsen work and personal productivity, relationships with friends and family, and can cause depression.
At Home Remedies for Sinus Infection
Many sinusitis sufferers have tried to treat their sinus infections at home, especially this year. For mild sinus infections, home remedies can be successful and convenient. Solutions that not only help combat painful symptoms but get to the root of the problem will be the most effective in treating your infection.
When searching for sinusitis home remedies, sufferers should turn to water. When used properly, water can cleanse your sinuses, thin mucus, and break up blockages. Some of the ways to use water as your home remedy for sinus infections involves:
Rinsing:
One effective solution involves using a salt water solution to cleanse your nasal passage. The solution would be poured directly into the nasal passage. Rinsing can be effective but if you do not follow the instructions it can be dangerous. If you do not follow nasal rinsing instructions, there is a risk of injury and further infection.
Along with any other instructions, it is important to use the proper water type, temperature, and water purity. Water type should be reserved to only sterile or distilled water to prevent any unwanted bacteria from entering the nasal cavity. It is important to stay mindful of the temperature that the water is before rinsing. Do not put water that is too hot into your nasal cavity or you may be at risk for burns. Also, make sure any container you are using to pour the water is completely sterile and clean.
Stay hydrated:
One of the simplest, but most important ways to get rid of an infection in your body is to stay hydrated. In order to heal infection and inflammation you should be making sure you have enough fluids.
Steam:
Another effective way to use water to combat your sinus infection is in the form of steam. Steam can help break up blockages in a nasal passage. There are a few options for those who want to treat their sinus infections with steam. The most basic would be spending more time in a warm shower or bath. Many sufferers choose to use a steam pot or steam machine. A steam pot is a warm bowl of water with fabric placed over the user’s head and the bowl. The user will make sure not to touch the water and breathe deeply. A steam machine, or humidifier, is an alternative to a steam pot.
Warm and cool compress:
Using warm and cool compresses around the sinus and facial areas can help sufferers relieve some of their painful symptoms and may be one of the most effective at home remedies for sinus headaches. This simple technique can aid drainage as well as ease inflammation.
When Home Remedies for Sinus Infections Don’t Work:
Although home remedies can be convenient and helpful, many times they don’t get to the root problem of a sinus infection. For those who suffer from long lasting or recurring sinus infections, the best option is to visit your local sinus doctor. Even the best over counter sinus medication may not be sufficient in treating your infection.
Are you tired of trying temporary home remedies for sinus infections? Are looking for long-term relief?
Schedule an appointment with Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Today!
