Sinus pain can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, affecting everything from your daily routine to your ability to concentrate at work. For many people, sinus pain also makes it difficult to engage in the activities they love. Fortunately, sinus pain is often easily treated with a few, simple, at-home measures.
Sinus pain treatment can range from steam therapy to hydration and may require little more than the supplies you have in your medicine cabinet. If you or a loved one live with sinus pain, consider trying the following at-home remedies.
One of the most effective and easiest means of relieve sinus pain is through steam therapy, as steam loosens the mucus and unclogs the sinuses. Steam therapy does not require you to visit a sauna or hit the hot tub — rather, it simply requires you to jump in a hot shower, turn on a humidifier or inhale the steam from a pot of boiling water. To increase the effectiveness of these measures, consider adding a few drops of essential oils, such as eucalyptus or peppermint, to the humidifier or hot water.
Nasal irrigation is another tried and true remedy for relieving sinus pressure. Nasal irrigation involves flushing out the sinuses with a saline solution, which you can purchase at your local drugstore. You can also make your own saline solution at home with the help of recipes you find on the internet. For help irrigating the nasal passages, consider using a bulb syringe, neti pot or nasal spray bottle.
Drinking plenty of fluids can help to thin out the mucus in your sinuses, making it easier to breathe. It is important to stay hydrated, which you can easily do by drinking the recommended eight glasses of water per day. You can also try drinking hot tea, broth, or warm water mixed with honey and lemon to soothe your throat and sinuses.
Applying a warm compress to your face can help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation and, in the process, relieve sinus pain. A “compress” can be something as everyday as a warm washcloth or something more elaborate, such as a heating pad. Whatever you choose to use, apply it to your forehead, cheeks and nose for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Be careful not to overheat the compress as this may cause burns.
Popular over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are helpful for relieving sinus pressure and associated pain. These medications help to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief from discomfort. Before taking, though, consult with your physician to ensure a medication will not negatively interact with any of your prescription medications and/or exacerbate a pre-existing health condition, and always read and follow the instructions on the label. Finally, do not exceed the recommended dosage unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
Certain irritants such as pollution, cigarette smoke and strong odours or perfumes can irritate the sinuses or exacerbate a sinus condition. For this reason, try to avoid irritants as much as possible. You should also strive to avoid alcohol and caffeine, as both liquids can dehydrate you and worsen your symptoms.
To drain your sinuses and reduce inflammation while you sleep, sleep with your head at an incline. To achieve optimal elevation, use an extra pillow or raise the head of your bed slightly. In addition to helping clear the sinuses, elevating the head while you sleep can promote better breathing.
Dryness in the nasal passages is a major cause of sinus pain and discomfort. You can combat dryness by adding moisture to the air in your home with a humidifier. A humidifier can help to relieve sinus pain and reduce the risk of further irritation. You can add a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or peppermint, to enhance the experience.
Avoiding triggers that can exacerbate sinus pain can help to prevent future episodes. Some such triggers to avoid include allergens, such as pollen and dust, cigarette smoke and strong perfumes.
There are dozens of natural remedies that health professionals and individuals alike attest help relieve sinus pain. These include but are not limited to the following:
Sinus pain can be uncomfortable at best and painful at worst. Fortunately, you can easily relieve most sinus pain with at-home remedies. If you or a loved one develop sinus pain at any point in your life, try one or more of the aforementioned remedies as soon as you develop symptoms. With concerted effort, you should be able to relieve symptoms without taking more comprehensive measures.