When you have sinus pain or congestion, normal functions such as breathing can be difficult. No matter if it’s due to sinus pressure, a cold, the flu or allergies, you need to find relief for your discomfort. Over-the-counter medicines can alleviate your painful symptoms. But the side effects of the medications can leave you tired, dizzy and out of sorts. The following remedies offer a more natural approach, which include the use of items you may have in your home or pantry.
Neti Pot Solution
Sinus congestion can cause severe pain and stuffiness. Although prescription medicines can help treat and relieve your symptoms, you may have to avoid certain foods when taking them. You may also experience side effects that are much worse than your current condition. If you want to alleviate sinus pain and congestion naturally, a neti pot can be a great alternative treatment.
Neti pots have been used by practitioners in India for centuries. It’s also a gentler way to rid the nasal passages of mucus through the use of salt water. After the pot has been filled with the solution, simply place the end of the spout in your nostril and place your head to the side. The solution will then flow out the other nostril. This method is safe to do daily or on an as-needed basis.
Add Moisture to Your Air
A dry household can sap the moisture out of your skin. It can also leave your nasal membranes dry, raw and irritated. If the dryness has caused your nose to bleed, you can prevent and treat nosebleeds within your home by adding a humidifier or vaporizer. Besides breaking up stuffiness by thinning nasal mucus, the warm mist can ease the irritation and dryness around your nostrils. If you don’t have a humidifier, you can add moisture to your air by boiling water on the stove for a cup of tea or letting the steam out during a shower or bath.
Hydrate with Fluids
If you’re fighting fatigue and not feeling your best, you’ve probably read articles singing the praises of water. Drinking a minimum of 8 glasses per day is not just about keeping your skin moist and body energized. Proper hydration also prevents your sinuses from becoming dry and stuffy. A great way to tell if your body is getting the recommended liquids is by looking at your urine. If it’s a deep yellow shade, you need to drink up. You want to aim for somewhat clear or the color of pale lemonade. If your nose is stuffy, you can replace your cold bottle of water with a mug of hot tea or warm lemon water.
Add Spice to Your Life
Nasal congestion can make it difficult for you to breathe normally. If you’re looking to ease the congestion caused by clogged sinuses, you may want to add some spice to your life. Spices such as wasabi, hot peppers, mustard, horseradish and curry can immediately clear up your nasal passages. Look on the Internet or through your favorite cookbook for recipes on how to incorporate the spices into your diet.
Control Your Home Environment
Dust, mold, mildew and bacteria can affect the air quality of your home. A filtration system can clean up the indoor air of your dwelling and get rid of dust mites and other allergens. Depending on the size of the units, you want to place them in areas that you occupy the most, such as the living room, kitchen and bedrooms. Other ways to control your home environment is with regular deep cleanings using natural products. You may also want to clean bedding, carpets and wood flooring on a regular basis.
Vitamins and Herbs
In recent studies, vitamin C has been shown to shorten the span of cold and flu. It may also lessen the severity of your aches and pains. However, if your sinus congestion is caused by sinusitis or allergies, you may need to try an herbal remedy. Eucalyptus, spearmint, menthol and peppermint oils can ease congestion naturally. Used as a rub or inhaled, the herbs can stimulate the passages in the nose to make breathing easier. If you find yourself congested at bedtime, place a few drops of the oil on a cloth and drape over your pillow case.
Facial pain, stuffiness, headaches, coughing and difficulty breathing are just a few symptoms of sinus pain and congestion. If your symptoms have caused you sleepless nights and days where you’re lacking energy, the above remedies will help you ease your pain naturally and without side effects.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
