A sinus infection, (or sinusitis as it is otherwise known) is an inflammation of the sinus and nasal passages. Some of the symptoms associated with a sinus infection can be pressure in the eyes, nose or cheek area. Sinusitis can also cause headaches.
Here are a few home remedies that you can use to help alleviate the pain, pressure and congestion of a sinus infections.
Use a Neti Pot
Probably one of the most recommended home remedies for a sinus infection or sinus congestion is the use of a neti pot. A neti pot is a vessel that looks similar to Aladdins lamp. It is a nasal irrigation device that can help alleviate facial pain, sinus pressure and sinus congestion.
While each Neti pot comes with its own set of instructions the basic way to use it is as follows: You mix about 16 ounces of warm water with one teaspoon of salt. (You can also add about ½ teaspoon of baking soda to make it gentler on the nose).
Tilt your head sideways over the sink at about a 45 degree angle and place the spout of the neti pot into your top nostril. Gently pour the solution into that nostril and the fluid will flow from that nasal cavity into the other nostril. (If any runs into your throat by accident, you should simply spit it out). Then you repeat on the other side. When done, blow your nose gently. Neti pots are also very effective for people who suffer from allergies.
Apple Cider Vinegar is especially helpful in avoiding sinus infections, or in a situation where a sinus infection already exists, can help eliminate it faster.
Simply combine 1/8 to 1/4 cup of Apple Cider Vinegar with 16 ounces of water and sip throughout the day. For a quick fix you can mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with one 8 ounces of water and drink up.
This is a great home remedy if you are usually prone to sinus infections anytime you get sick. Simply start drinking this mixture when a cold begins to ward off possible sinus infection later.
Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress over forehead and bridge of nose can also help relieve the pressure from a sinus infection. Just be sure that the compress is not too hot to avoid burning skin.
Take a Hot Shower
Taking a hot shower and filling a bathroom with hot steam can also help thin mucus and relieve sinus congestion and pressure.
Use a Vaporizer
Like the hot shower remedy above, keeping a vaporizer or humidifier in the room you are staying or sleeping can also help to relieve sinus pressure and symptoms.
Bowl of Steam
Placing a towel over your head and inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can also help to thin mucus and clear out sinuses. Just be careful to not get too close to steam-burn your face.
Use an Onion
Slice an onion in half and place in the microwave for approximately 15 seconds. Then place onion under nose and sniff in.
Go For Spicy
Certain spicy foods such as wasabi, salsa and horseradish can also help to drain your sinuses fast. You can add these to food or even simply inhale them to achieve the effect of a decongestant.
Foot or Hand Massage
As strange as it sounds, a simply foot or hand massage can also help to relieve sinusitis. It is known as reflexology. Firmly massage the soles of your feet and the palms of your hands a couple of times a day for approximately 5 minutes each time. Of if you are lucky enough, have someone do it for you.
Try Vicks
Applying a thin layer of Vicks on forehead or the back of your neck can also help to relieve the pressure and help clear a sinus infection.
Resources:
Home Remedies For Everything
Emedicine Health – Sinus Infections
