1. Try a Neti Pot
The process of using a neti pot is commonly known as nasal irrigation. Neti pots have been used in yoga for thousands of years, but have only recently become popular in the Western world. Using them flushes out dirt, mucus and allergens from the nasal passages, which clears up allergy symptoms promptly. Using a neti pot regularly can stop those symptoms before they start.
Fill your neti pot with a warm salt-water solution, using about one teaspoon of salt to half a liter of water. Insert the spout of the neti pot in one nostril and tilt your head to the side so that the spout is in the nostril in the highest position. Pour the water into the nostril and keep subtly adjusting the position of your head until the water flows out of the other nostril. Maintain this position until all of the water has flowed out of the neti pot. It only takes one or two tries to learn to use the neti pot properly. Once you know how, you can use it every day to keep your sinuses clean.
2. Get Acupuncture
There are several points on the body that can be stimulated with acupuncture needles to relieve congestion in the nasal passageways. There is a spot in the middle of the forehead, just above the hairline, that is frequently used to relieve the symptoms of sinus allergies. The meridian (also known as energy channel) of this spot runs directly into the nose, giving it the potential to offer instant relief. There are also two spots on the hand that, when used together, open up the nasal passageways. One of these spots is on the side of the wrist, and the other one is in the fleshy area between the forefinger and thumb.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water each day will thin out mucous secretions caused by sinus allergies. The build-up of thick mucous makes allergy symptoms feel worse. It can also create a self-perpetuating cycle by capturing and holding onto more allergens in the air. Drinking at least eight 8 oz. glasses of water a day is ideal.
4. Get Allergy Shots
If your sinus allergies are particularly severe or stubborn, you may need to visit an allergist and get allergy shots. Regular allergy shots will reprogram your immune system to stop recognizing your allergens as threats, which will eventually bring a halt to your symptoms. Most allergy shots are given once or twice a week over a period of a year or more, until symptoms are brought under control or eliminated altogether.
