Suffering from sinus infections can be extremely uncomfortable. According to Mayoclinic.com, sinus infections can be caused by a virus, bacteria or fungus. They usually affect the nasal cavity--mucus membranes--and cause inflammation and swelling. Fortunately there are several ways to relieve symptoms from the comfort of home.
Rest
Resting is one of the best ways to fight off an infection. Your body needs time to recover and any extra activity can deplete precious infection-fighting resources. Mayoclinic.com recommends getting plenty of rest and elevating your head. Elevating your nasal cavities allows the sinuses to drain and can help clear up blockages, which can make breathing a bit easier.
Steam
Sinus infections cause the nasal cavities to become engorged with mucus due to inflammation, which can make breathing difficult. Steam is an effective way to help break up the mucus and clear the nasal passageway. There are a few ways that steam can be administered. One method is the use of a vapor-producing machine that is specially designed to produce steam used for relieving sinus congestion. Vapor machines usually allow you to add specially formulated liquid medicine into the water that the steam then delivers into the nasal passages, helping clear the sinus symptoms. Another method for inhaling steam is to drape a towel over your head and breathe in steam from a hot bowel of water. This can also be done while running hot water in the bathroom sink or by running a hot bath or shower.
Fluids
Drinking plenty of water and other liquids can help with sinus symptoms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, drinking water can help by thinning out mucus, making it easier to drain. Hot chicken or vegetable soup is another way to get fluids and at the same time generate steam to help clear up nasal congestion. Warm tea is another option.
Warm Compress
According to Mayoclinic.com, sinus infections can cause the area around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead to become painful, tender and swollen. Aching in the upper jaw and teeth is also common. Using a warm compress can help ease facial pain. Try running a towel under warm water and placing it near the eyes, nose and cheeks.
