The skull has several hollow pockets, called sinuses, which produces mucous and helps trap bacteria and pollutants that enter through the nose. The sinuses can begin to fill with thick nasal secretions due to a virus, bacteria or allergies. This sinus congestion, also referred to as sinusitis, in the sinus cavities can cause pain, pressure and swelling. Some individuals suffer short-term from the condition, while others develop chronic sinusitis. Treatment for congestion in the sinuses consists of measures to help improve drainage of the secretions.
Step 1
Take over-the-counter medications aimed at relieving the pain and pressure associated with congestion in the sinuses. Many products contain a combination of a pain reliever and a decongestant to provide relief. Additional medications, such as antihistamines will help dry up sinus congestion. Follow the packaging instructions or instructions from a physician when taking any medication.
Step 2
Drink plenty of fluids to stay properly hydrated. Increasing fluid will help thin nasal secretions and decrease the congestion in the sinuses. Warm beverages do double duty since they increase fluid intake and can help open constricted blood vessels in the nose. Dilating the tight blood vessels can help increase the nasal drainage, which relieves the congestion, according to the Merck Manuals.
Step 3
Use a warm mist vaporizer to open the sinuses, or use a bowl of hot water. Placing a towel over your head will help contain the moist air. Apply warm, wet washcloths or towels over the congested sinuses for relief from the pressure.
Step 4
Spray saline into the nose several times daily to help decrease the thickness of the secretions in the nasal sinuses. Using a nasal spray containing medications such as phenylephrine can help constrict the blood vessels in the nose, which will help decrease the congestion.
Step 5
See a physician for sinus congestion that does not improve with home treatments. Sometimes antibiotics may help treat the chronic congestion. Common antibiotics for sinusitis include amoxicillin or a combination or amoxicillin and clavulanate, according to the Merck Manuals. The physician may also prescribe prescription allergy medications, oral steroids or other treatments, depending on the cause of the sinus congestion.
Step 6
Undergo surgery on your sinuses to wash out the congestion in the sinuses and to culture the drainage in order to effectively treat the problem.
