More than 29 million Americans are diagnosed with sinusitis annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A sinus infection is inflammation in the sinus cavity that leads to sinus headaches, nasal congestion and postnasal drip. Most cases of sinusitis are treatable with rest, but some patients may experience chronic symptoms. Eyebright is a common herb used to treat sinus infections because of its ability to reduce inflammation, causing trapped mucus to drain properly, according to the website Drugs.com.
Sinus Infection Background
The sinuses become inflamed from the common cold, allergies and environmental factors. When nasal passages swell from increased blood flow, cutting off the ability to breathe or drain mucus out of the nose, according to MedlinePlus, it leads to sinus pressure felt throughout the head and congestion. In order to treat sinusitis properly, the cause of the inflammation needs to be identified.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
Common symptoms of sinusitis include thick, yellow nasal discharge, congestion, a low-grade fever, body chills, reduction in smell and taste, facial tenderness, ear pain, fatigue, bad breathe and headaches, according to MayoClinic.com. The swollen sinus cavity puts pressure around the head, causing facial pain and tenderness. Sinus pressure pain is commonly felt in the ears, eyes, forehead and cheeks. Consult a doctor immediately if you experience blurred vision, swelling in the forehead or severe pain.
Eyebright Use
Eyebright is an herbal supplement commonly used to treat a sinus infection. Eyebright has not been evaluated by the FDA and is therefore not regulated by the federal government, according to Drugs.com. Dosing and treatment methods using eyebright need to be discussed with your doctor and an herbalist. Eyebright reduces the amount of inflammation in the sinus cavity, alleviating sinus pressure, pain and allows the nose to drain mucus properly.
Eyebright Side Effects
Drugs.com states common side effects of using eyebright are sneezing, runny nose, dim vision, confusion, pressure behind the eyes, constipation, weakness, sensitivity to light, yawning, insomnia, toothache, insomnia, sweating and increased urination. If you experience common allergy symptoms, such as wheezing, increased nasal congestion, dizziness, increased heart rate or a faint pulse, discontinue use and call 911.
Conventional Medication
Decongestants are conventionally used in reducing the amount of inflammation in the sinus cavity for sinusitis. Decongestants restrict increased blood flow into the nasal cavity, according to MedlinePlus. Talk with you doctor before using any over-the-counter medications.
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