1. Safeguard Your Environment
Since sinus infections can have their start in airborne mold, fungi or other allergens, improving the air quality in your home can help you prevent or treat sinus infections. Institute a no-smoking policy indoors. Keep windows, sills and other spots dry and free of mildew.
Use an electric air cleaner to filter out irritants from the air that you breathe. For allergens trapped in carpet, try using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. Once you have all these effective air-quality controls in place, stay indoors at home on days that the ozone level in your area is very high.
2. Soothe and Open Nasal Passages
Even though there may seem to be plenty of fluid in your sinuses, added humidity is the key to getting that fluid flowing again. Congestion responds well to moist heat, whether it's steam inhaled from a hot shower or a pot of warm water. You can maintain higher room humidity by keeping simmering water on the stove or radiator, or by plugging in an electric humidifier. A drop or two of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil in the water creates steam that is a natural remedy for opening nasal passages.
Don't forget to keep yourself hydrated as well. Drinking lots of water keeps mucous membranes properly moist. Using a saline spray or rinse when you are able to inhale helps to thin mucus and break up discharge and irritants.
3. Treat the Pain of Sinus Headache
Sinus infection symptoms may include headache, earache and toothache. You can ease these painful conditions with natural home remedies that don't carry any harmful drug interactions or side effects, as some over-the-counter medications do.
Since sinuses respond to temperature as well as humidity, applying moist heat can ease headache pain. Use a moist hot pack, water bottle or warm, wet towel placed over the affected areas. To keep the pressure on your sinuses at a minimum, limit your alcohol consumption. You may be unable to lie down due to congestion, so sit with your head upright and try not to bend over.
