A sinus infection can be caused by the common cold, allergies, a bacterial infection or a fungus. Symptoms may include yellow or green drainage from the nostrils, pain around the eyes and forehead, cough, fever and nausea. In some cases, an antibiotic or other medical treatment may be necessary. Many times, though, home remedies can successfully treat a sinus infection. Severe pain, high fever or symptoms that do not get better in a few days warrant a call to your doctor. Do not take herbs or dietary supplements if you are on any medications without checking with your doctor or pharmacist.
Lifestyle Remedies
Support your body's efforts to heal itself by eating a nutritious diet and getting enough sleep. Drink water, hot tea and other liquids to thin the mucus in the sinuses and to encourage it to drain. Breathing in steam can also help to thin nasal secretions. Use a commercial saline spray or a neti pot with salt water to rinse out the nostrils, which can help clear the sinuses. Using a humidifier in your bedroom and sleeping with your head elevated will have a similar effect.
Dietary Supplements
Bromelain is an enzyme made by pineapples that may help to reduce sinus inflammation. If you take blood thinners or ACE inhibitors, bromelain may interact with those medications, so ask a health care professional before use. Quercetin is a pigment found in various fruits and vegetables, and may act as a natural antihistamine for some people. Probiotics are important to take if you need an antibiotic for your sinus infection. They can also help you to avoid the allergies that may cause sinusitis.
Herbs
Some herbs can help you to cure a sinus infection. Eucalyptus oil can help to relieve nasal and sinus congestion. It also is antibacterial, so taking it can help fight off bacteria in the sinuses. Sinupret is a commercial herbal formula that contains European elder, common sorrel, cowslip and gentian. This formula can thin nasal secretions as well as boost the immune system. Other herbs that are used to treat headaches and may help with sinusitis include Chinese skullcap, feverfew and willow bark.
Alternative Treatments
See a homeopathic doctor for an individualized recommendation for a homeopathic remedy for your sinus infection. Each person's circumstances are different, and a professional can prescribe the appropriate homeopathic remedy for you. Some possibilities include belladonna, bryonia, murcurius, pulsatilla and arsenic.
An acupuncturist or chiropractor may also be able to treat your sinus infection. Needling therapy and chiropractic adjustment have helped some people to overcome their sinusitis symptoms.
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