Sinus congestion is generally caused by an inflammation of the nasal cavities that can cause mucus to buildup in the the nasal and sinus passages. It's often accompanied by a thick discharge from the nose, sneezing, difficulty breathing through the nasal passage, tenderness of the face, reduced sense of smell and tooth pain. Although sinus congestion is usually not life threatening it can cause immense discomfort.
Step 1
Place a warm compress over your face and neck. To create a compress, soak a wash cloth in warm water and wring out excess moisture. Leave the compress on your face to help ease the pain and open your nasal passages.
Step 2
Prop yourself when you are laying down or sleeping with a high pillow. The pillow will elevate your head and neck, which will make it easier for any fluid to drain from your nose.
Step 3
Place a bowl of steaming hot water on a table and place your head over the bowl. Cover your head and the bowl with a towel and breathe in the steam. The steam gets into the nasal passage and helps soothe pain and break up the mucus. You can also try a hot shower to get the same effect.
Step 4
Use a nasal spray to clean out the passages in the nose. A saline nasal spray will help clean out the passages, which allows the mucus to drain easier. A nasal corticosteroid spray will actively treat the inflammation in the nose, helping the swelling to reduce, which will open up the sinuses.
Step 5
If the congestion is bad, your doctor may prescribe a decongestant which will help to dry the mucus and reduce the swelling. These should only be taken for a few days as prolonged use can cause a more severe congestion than you initially had.
Tips and Warnings
- If you are in pain, try taking an over-the-counter pain medication. While many of these will not cure the congestion they may make the pain you are experiencing more bearable.
- Unless the congestion is caused by a bacteria don't take antibiotics to cure this condition. They will not work and may play havoc with your immune system.
Things You'll Need
- Warm Compress
- High pillow
- Bowl of hot water
- Towel
- Nasal spray
- Decongestants
