According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, allergic reactions, the common cold or infection can cause the sinus cavity to become inflamed and swell. If you suffer from the common signs of sinus issues such as sinus pressure, sinus headaches, nasal congestion or discharge, use home remedies to minimize the signs and symptoms of common sinus problems.
Implement Lifestyle Changes
Getting enough sleep will help your body strengthen the immune system and ward off any potential infection, bacteria or virus causing the sinus issues. Drinking clear fluids such as water or juice can help thin mucus secretions, promoting healthy nasal drainage. Do not drink liquids with alcohol or caffeine as these substances can cause the sinuses to become too dry, leading to greater congestion. Drink a minimum of six, 8-oz. glasses of water daily. Drinking hot herbal tea may also help thin mucus from the heat. Sleeping with the head elevated is also recommended by the Mayo Clinic to encourage proper sinus drainage as you sleep.
Use Humidity
Humidity can help sooth and restore the sinuses back to their normal function. Using a pot of boiling water with a towel draped over your head can help deliver humidity to the sinuses. Other ways to increase humidity in the sinus cavity is to take a hot shower or run a humidifier. A humidifier can help to maintain the proper moister level in your home to promote sinus health. Kidshealth.org states that the proper moister level is between 45 and 50 percent humidity. Using a moist hot compress can also help to relieve sinus pressure and congestion. Place a moist hot compress across the eyes and nose for 30 minutes, followed by a cool compress for 30 seconds. This can be repeated as often as needed.
Use a Nasal Rinse/Wash
A nasal wash uses saline solution to help rid the sinus cavity of excess mucus and irritants that may be causes sinus inflammation. A nasal wash uses an instrument called a neti pot to pour saline through the sinuses using gravity. Saline rinses are performed while standing over a sink. Fill a squeeze bottle with saline solution, place a tube up your nostril and force the solution through the sinus cavity by squeezing the bottle with your hand. After using a nasal rinse or wash, you should gently blow your nose to remove the loosened mucus.
