The skull is a bony structure with paired air-filled spaces called sinuses that function as an air filtration system. Sinuses have a mucus-producing lining and cilia, or hairy projections, that sweep germs and pollutants out. Inflammation of this lining due to allergies or viral infections may lead to dysfunction of the mucociliary apparatus and mark the beginnings of poor sinus draining, increased pressure, and sometimes bacterial infection. Home treatments may relieve some of these symptoms.
Decongestants
Decongestants constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing tissue swelling and mucus formation in the nose and sinuses. They may be given topically in nasal sprays or orally in medicines that contain pseudoephedrine. Caution must be taken that nasal sprays are discontinued after three days of use because of a rebound effect that may worsen symptoms and cause habitual usage. Oral medicines should be avoided in people with hypertension or enlarged prostates, according to the 2009 textbook "Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases."
Mucolytics
According to an article by Dewey Scheid and Robert Hamm in the November 2004 edition of the journal "American Family Physician," guaifenesin is possibly effective in that it functions to thin mucus secretions and thereby improve clearance. However, no studies have shown a proven benefit.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines may be purchased individually or in combination with oral decongestants. These may possibly have added benefit for those who are allergy sufferers.
Nasal Irrigation
The safest of all methods, saline irrigation, works to decrease swelling, improve ciliary function, and flush allergens, debris, and mucus mechanically with gentle pressure and large volumes. Pregnant women and those with comorbid conditions may opt for this method as opposed to medications, Dewey and Hamm noted. Saline irrigation solutions may be purchased at most drug stores or online. Saline mists and sprays cannot provide the same pressure and volume but may be soothing for on-the-go use.
Moisture and Humidity
Moisture soothes the nasal passages. Try covering your head with a towel and inhaling the steam of a a sink filled with hot water. A hot shower may also be relieving. A hot, damp towel may lessen headache pressure and pain when placed above the brow and across the nasal bridge. A cool mist humidifier can help to keep indoor air from drying out.
Considerations
If your symptoms are accompanied by a high fever or have not improved after 48 to 72 hours of home treatment, consider seeking treatment for what may be a bacterial infection. Home remedies alone will not be sufficient in that case; antibiotics are required.
References
- "Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases"; Gerald L. Mandell, MD, MACP, John E. Bennett, MD, MACP, and Raphael Dolin, MD; 2009
- "American Family Physician"; Acute Bacterial Rhinosinusitis in Adults: Part II. Treatment; Dewey Scheid and Robert Hamm; November 2004
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