According to CNN Health, more than 30 million Americans suffer from sinusitis. The Mayo Clinic defines chronic sinusitis as a sinus infection that lasts for more than eight weeks or is reoccurring. A chronic sinus infection commonly causes obstruction of the nasal passages due to inflammation. This leads to nasal congestion, sinus pain and nasal discharge. Chronic sinus infection sufferers need to be evaluated by an eye, nose and throat specialist for proper diagnosis. Home remedies need to be discussed with a health care provider before implementing them.
Use Nasal Irrigation
CNN Health states that nasal irrigation can help with chronic sinusitis. Nasal irrigation comes in two basic forms: a neti pot and a sinus rinse. A neti pot is a tea-shaped pot that holds saline solution. The solution is poured directly into one of the user's nostrils, allowing the solution to drain throughout the sinus cavity. A sinus rinse uses a spray bottle that is inserted into a person's nostril. The user presses the bottle to create pressure, forcing the solution throughout the sinuses. Both methods help clear the nasal passages of excessive mucus and moisten the irritated sinuses.
Drink More Liquid
According to the Mayo Clinic, increasing liquid intake will help tin mucus secretions which provides with more efficient drainage. Water and juice is recommended by the Mayo Clinic because they help hydrate the body. Other beverages such as alcohol or coffee can dehydrate the body, which can cause greater inflammation in the sinuses. Hot herbal teas may also help thin mucus secretions because of the warmth from the tea.
Use Steam
Steam is an effective way to sooth and calm inflamed sinuses due to chronic sinusitis, according to Medline Plus. Steam the sinuses two to four times a day to provide ample relief by using a shower or warm mist humidifier. The Mayo Clinic states that draping a towel over a person's head while over a bowl of hot water is an effective way to steam the sinuses for chronic sinusitis relief.
Avoid Extreme Environmental Changes
Medline Plus suggests avoiding extreme environmental changes with chronic sinusitis. If the sinus cavity is congested and irritated, flying should be avoided due to the extreme change in altitude and pressure. Avoid extreme temperature changes to help maintain proper balance in the sinus cavity. For example, in the summer, try not to go from low-humidity in an air conditioned home to warm, high-humidity outdoors. This can cause the sinuses to become inflamed even greater.
