Sinus infections may occur because of irritants causing inflammation of the mucus membranes lining the inside of the nose and facial sinuses. Congestion, pain and nasal discharge indicate the presence of sinusitis, according to the University of Michigan Health System. A holistic approach may speed recovery and reduce symptoms. A health practitioner should be consulted if symptoms worsen or do not resolve in a week.
Humidifiers
Humidifiers add moisture to the air, making it easier to breathe. They may help break up congestion in the facial sinuses and reduce upper-respiratory symptoms. The addition of a few drops of menthol or eucalyptus oil can increase the effectiveness of a humidifier, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Eucalyptus oil has antibacterial properties and acts as an expectorant, clearing the respiratory tract as well as the sinuses.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture may be helpful in clearing the sinuses and breaking up congestion in the upper-respiratory tract, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This ancient Chinese treatment uses not only fine needles to simulate energy meridians along the body but combines them with herbal treatments, both during and after the acupuncture session is complete. Consult a qualified doctor of Oriental medicine for acupuncture treatments.
Saline Nasal Sprays
Sinus infections can occur in dry, cold environments due to the mucus membranes lining the inside of the nose and sinus cavities drying out, making them more vulnerable to irritants. Saline nasal sprays and drops moisten these membranes and help clear the passages of debris, such as dried blood or mucus crusting the nose, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Preservative-free saline sprays are available at pharmacies, or homemade sprays can be used. The University of Michigan Health System explains how to make a homemade spray by making a mixture of 1/4 tsp. each of kosher salt and baking soda. Add this to 8 oz. warm water and allow the ingredients to dissolve. Use an eyedropper or bulb syringe to apply the spray to the nose. Store the remainder in the refrigerator.
Homeopathic Kali Bichromicum
Kali bichromicum, also called Kali bi, is one of the first homeopathic remedies to use in the case of sinusitis, according to "Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines." The remedy is indicated for people with stringy, yellow or green nasal discharge that is rubbery and cannot be easily removed from the nose. Sinusitis patients needing Kali bi may have pain between the eyes or in the forehead above either eye. Bones of the face and scalp may be tender and painful, and the person may be nauseous and dizzy. The individual generally feels worse during the middle of the day, around noon, and feels better from warmth and pressure. Kali bi is not indicated if the patient has a fever, but it may be given after the fever has subsided. The remedy is available in health food stores and online homeopathic pharmacies. Consult a homeopathic practitioner for appropriate directions for dosing.
References
- University of Michigan Health System: Facial Problems, Noninjury
- University of Michigan Health System: Saline Nasal Sprays & Irrigation
- "Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines"; Stephen Cummings, F.N.P. and Dana Ullman; M.P.H.; 1984
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Sinusitis
