Sinus problems affect more than 50 million people annually, according to St. Joseph's Hospital. Sinus issues are commonly caused by allergies, the common cold or nasal deformities and produce similar symptoms, such as nasal congestion, sinus pressure and nasal discharge. A person should consult with her doctor to properly diagnose and treat sinus problems. Some of the most common remedies for sinus problems are over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as decongestants and antihistamines. Other remedies for sinus problems are the use of a neti pot and surgery in severe cases.
Decongestants
Nasal congestion is caused by the swelling of the sinus cavity or the production of excessive mucus, according to Familydoctor.org. Decongestants work by shrinking the blood vessels in the nasal cavity, reducing the swelling and restoring proper drainage and breathing through the nose. Some decongestants can cause sleeplessness, excitability, increased blood pressure and heart rate. A person with heart, liver or kidney disease should not take decongestants without talking with her doctor.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are used to remedy sinus problems related to allergies. A common allergic reaction is nasal discharge and congestion. When a person is allergic to a particular substance such as dust mites, his body releases histamine in the bloodstream to ward off the allergen. Antihistamines prevent the body from releasing an excessive amount of histamine, avoiding allergic reactions, according to Familydoctor.org. Antihistamines are available over the counter or with a doctor's prescription.
Neti Pot
A neti pot is a drug-free remedy for common sinus problems, including sinus pressure, congestion and discharge. A neti pot is a teapot-shaped pot designed for nasal irrigation. A neti pot uses a mixture of saline, warm water and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to cleanse and moisten the sinus cavity. A person places the saline solution in the neti pot, places it up to her nostril and pours the solution into the nose. Gravity guides the solution through the sinuses and out the other nostril. After using a neti pot, a person should gently blow the nose and repeat on the other nostril. If an individual experiences pain or burning, she should discontinue use and talk with her doctor.
Surgery
In rare cases, nasal deformities may require surgery to remedy certain sinus issues. The most common conditions requiring surgery are a deviated septum (a crooked center wall of the nose) and severe nasal polyps. While the only remedy to correct a deviated septum is surgery, nasal polyps may be remedied with the use of prescribed steroid nasal sprays. Surgery is required for nasal polyps only when they do not respond to drug treatments.
