If your sinuses are giving you trouble, you're far from being alone. Results from the 2009 National Health Interview Survey revealed that about 29 million U.S. adults were diagnosed with some type of sinus condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Having sinusitis, or a sinus infection, can particularly be difficult to deal with. Using a salt solution in your nasal passageway, however, can help provide relief.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis develops when your paranasal sinuses become inflamed. These sinuses are connected to the nasal passageway. Certain conditions as well as infectious agents cause bacteria to flourish in these areas. One of the top culprits instigating sinus infections is the common cold virus. Allergens, atmospheric conditions and fungi are also possible causes. Once bacteria grow in the sinuses, many bothersome signs and symptoms develop. These include congestion; facial pain; fever; and thick, yellowish nasal discharge.
Using Salt
Sodium chloride may help you overcome the effects of sinusitis quicker. Dr. Nick Debnath, an otolaryngologist at the Washington University School of Medicine, points out that salt solutions improve functioning of the sinuses, thereby helping to clear out mucus, allergens and infectious agents. The solution gives a boost to hair-like projections in the nose and sinuses called cilia, making them flush out these substances faster. Salt solutions also provide moisture and lubrication for the nose and sinuse. Using this home treatment may reduce your dependence on other medications and prevent your symptoms from getting worse as well.
Making a Nasal Wash
Saline nasal washes are available at your local pharmacy, but you can also make your own. Just mix 8 oz. of warm distilled water with 1/4 tsp. of non-iodized salt. Combining 1/4 tsp. of baking soda into the solution helps reduce the stinging or minimal discomfort that may occur in the nose and sinuses.
Other Treatments
See your physician if you have the signs or symptoms of a sinus infection. Although sinusitis often isn't serious, you may need to take antibiotics to resolve a bacterial infection. Antibiotics are typically recommended when the infection doesn't subside within a week or two, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Worsening symptoms -- including high fever, headache and facial swelling -- may be cause for antibiotic therapy as well. These drugs won't help cases caused by fungi or viruses. If allergies are the culprit, your physician may prescribe antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: FastStats: Sinus Conditions
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Sinusitis
- Washington University Physicians; Sinus Rinses; Nick Debnath, M.D.
- Columbia University Health Services; Go Ask Alice!; Neti Pot; December 2010
- University of Michigan Health System; Saline Nasal Sprays; Melissa Pynnonen, M.D.; March 2010
