Anyone who has had a cold or who has suffered from seasonal allergies knows all too well about sinus pressure. It can be very painful and exhausting.
There are many ways to relieve the pressure. Drug stores have a whole section dedicated to clearing up clog sinuses. There are nasal sprays and strips, liquid medicines, pills, and soothing bath treatments all designed to help you breath again.
What causes sinus pressure or sinusitis?
There are different types of sinusitis. Acute sinusitis is short term and is usually caused by a bacterial and viral infections. The condition will not last more then 30 days.
Chronic sinusitis is caused by things such as allergies,a poorly functioning mucous membrane, or a small sinus cavity. If a bacterial or viral infection last long then 30 days, if may be considered chronic.
There are a number of things that can cause the sinuses to become stuffy. Dehydration, poor air, stress, bacteria, fungus, hormones (pregnancy often trigger nasal congestion), and allergies.
Remedies and Cures
It is important to determine what is causing the sinus inflammation. If it’s a viral infection, like a cold, chances are that it will clear on its own. If it is a bacterial infection, you can get a prescription for an antibiotic.
You will want to check for allergens. If you noticed that your nose starts getting stuffy around Fluffy then you may have pet dander allergies. Dust and pollen are also common allergens.
Once you figure out what that cause of the sinusitis is, you can choose a treatment. There are a few home remedies that can help you feel better. However, if your sinus pressure comes with a fever or a headache, then you should see the doctor.
To treat allergies related sinusitis, find what’s causing it and remove it. If your pet Fluffy is the problem, the doctor can prescribe an allergy medicine so you can keep her.
If you have a cold, try eucalyptus. Place the oil in a bowl of warm water, place the bowl on your lap. Then, take a towel and drape it over your head and bowl. This will also work with lavender sandalwood and tea tree oil. The idea is to breathe in the vapors created by the warm water and essential oil.
Tea tree oil will work well if you have a cold or a bacterial infection. Tree tea oil has antibacterial properties.
Pouring salt-water up your nose with a neti pot will also help to rinse out the sinuses. This can be done several times a day, it will also help to moisten the sinuses. I try and use my neti pot once a day because of the amount of dust in my house due to DIY, it seems to be working very well.
Dry air is a common cause of sinus irritation. A humidifier will help to introduce water vapor into the air.
When dehydration is the cause, drink more water. The average person should be drinking at least eight 8 oz. glasses a day.
