Millions of people in the United States suffer from sinusitis or sinus problems. The standard treatment for sinus problems is first to treat them with over the counter antihistamines and decongestants and if that doesn't work you will be prescribed a round of antibiotics and possibly steroids for the inflammation. These products list mild to severe side effects and when used over long periods can prove even more problematic.
You can avoid these unnecessary side effects and save yourself the expense by learning how to treat sinusitis naturally. Over the Counter medication may cost anywhere from $4.00-$8.00 And if you have chronic sinus congestion and have to keep taking medication, you’re obviously going to be purchasing a box every couple of weeks (even though you are told not to on the box--you’re supposed to consult your physician after two weeks of persistent problems). But, do most of us do this?
If you have acute sinusitis, and have been to the doctor for it, and no other remedies have worked for you, try treating the symptoms naturally next time. If you fear having surgery, or and don’t want to be on antibiotics, take a look at these suggestions. There’s a potpourri of ways to deal with sinusitus and its symptoms:
Vaporizer
Vaporizers may be purchased in almost any department store or pharmacy. Typically, you have to use remedies such as menthol and eucalyptus with the vaporizers (in the water). Solutions may be bought where the vaporizers are sold.
Cool Air Mister
Cool Air Misters add water and moisture to the air; you usually fill them with water. These are good for very dry areas of the house or basements. Cool air misters must be constantly filled with fresh water, and the filters must be changed for maximum benefits.
Air Conditioner
In the summer, when it’s hot and stuffy, try using the air conditioner for your sinuses. You’d be surprised at how it not only cools you off, but improves your breathing immensely. Also, if you can avoid it, stay indoors in the springtime, away from the blooming trees and flowers and get into the house with your air conditioner turned on low.
Medicated Vapor Rub
Medicated vapor rubs may be purchased at almost any store carrying medications. They may be used alone or with vaporizers. Sometimes, it’s effective to use them on and around your nose and sinus areas before bed; never use them inside of your nose or mouth.
Saline/Ocean Nasal Spray
Saline or ocean nasal spray may be purchased at any cosmetic store in the medication isle. Look for the ones that are all natural (containing no medicine). These are very effective if used often enough. Sometimes, they’re a bit unpleasant smelling and tasting, but work almost immediately.
Water, Water, Water and More Water
The most important nutrient for the human body is water. An average person can live for about forty to forty five days without food but only three to five days without water. Approximately two-thirds of a person's body weight is water. Our blood is made up of 82 percent water and both our brain and muscles, are 75 percent water. The major ingredient of all body fluids is water. The average sized person requires 2 to 3 quarts of water per day. A good formula to calculate your specific water requirements would be to drink half of your weight in ounces. For example, if you weigh 125lbs. You would divided the number of pounds by two (125/2) and 64.5 is how many ounces would be recommended that you drink daily. Drinking water throughout the day is very important to maintain proper hydration but drinking water before bed seems to keep your sinuses in check and clear throughout the night into the early morning.
Other Sinus Remedies
Some alternative sinus remedies include the following: eucalyptus oil, rosemary, and lemongrass (natural essenses/oils). These may be purchased at any holistic heath shoppe or vitamin store.
Soups, Spices and Hot Stuff
Anything that you can slurp that is hot and spicy (or contains garlic, pepper, or horseradish root, etc.) is usually very effective in the draining of sinuses. Try it sometime. You’ll be surprised at how fast you have to run and get some tissues!
