Sinus infections occur when the sinus cavities and nasal passageways become inflamed and swollen, according to the Mayo Clinic. The sinuses sit behind the cheeks, eyes and nasal bones. When a child’s sinuses clog with mucous, bacteria may begin to grow. According to the Cleveland Clinic, day-care settings, drinking from baby bottles while lying down, pacifiers and exposure to smoke put a child at risk of developing sinusitis. Sinus infections often follow the common cold. Medline Plus says that there are over 1 billion colds per year. A variety of home remedies may assist with treating a child’s sinus infection. However, consult a medical doctor first.
Humidity
Humidifiers should be placed around the home to increase moisture in the air. The moist air eases pain and allows mucous to drain freely from sinuses. Cleaning the humidifiers on a weekly basis is important to prevent fungal growth in the machines. Children may bathe in warm water or take a hot shower to soothe irritated sinuses. Medline Plus recommends inhaling steam or moist air two to four times a day. Older children may be able to steam their sinuses by bending their head over a hot bowel of water and inhaling deeply. Covering the head with a towel creates a steam tent and focuses the moist air on the sinuses.
Warm Compresses
Warm compresses can be created from warm, moist washcloths. Microwaves or hot water warm the towels, which are then placed on the child’s eyes, nose and cheeks. Compresses help ease facial pain and discomfort associated with sinus infections. Warm compresses may only need to be applied for a few minutes to decrease sinus discomfort, according to MotherNature.com.
Hydrate
Children should drink additional fluids when they are suffering from a cold or sinus infection. Increased fluids thin mucous-clogged sinuses and promotes drainage. KidsHealth.org suggests that parents avoid caffeinated beverages such as soda. Caffeine causes increased urination, which dehydrates the body. The Mayo Clinic recommends water or juice. Parents can consider chicken soup. Both the broth and the steam created from the soup aid in fighting colds and sinus infections. According to KidsHealth.com, chicken soup may thin mucous and control congestion.
Rest
Allowing the child’s body to heal is essential. Rest and sleep are critical when fighting a sinus infection. The Mayo Clinic suggests using pillows to elevate the head while sleeping. Mucous drains quicker when the child is sitting up or the head is elevated.
