Sinusitis Alternative Therapies

Humidify the Air

Dry sinuses can be painful. Using a humidifier will help move mucus through your sinuses. Be sure to following the instructions and clean the humidifier regularly.

Steam Vapors

Similarly, inhaling steam directly into your sinuses can help with alleviating congestion and help reduce inflammation. You can you a commercial nasal steam inhalation device, sitting in steamy shower or even breathing in steam from a bowl of hot (not boiling) water. Some people find that a few drops of menthol oil added to the water may also help.

Saline Sprays

Not to be confused with nasal steroid sprays or nasal decongestant sprays, saline sprays do not contain any medication and are helpful to keep your nasal passages moist and hydrated. They also help loosen the thick mucus build-up.

Drinking Fluids

Keeping your body hydrated also helps with thinning the mucus in your sinuses – helping them drain. It’s also important if you are taking any decongestants to increase your fluid intake as well.

Warm compress

Sometimes when the pain and pressure of your sinus headache is too much to bear, applying a warm compress over the affected areas – your forehead or cheeks – may help. A warm wet compress usually works best.

Nasal Rinses

There are many different nasal rinses and irrigation systems on the market, but the fundamental goal is to rinse out the sinuses to help clear out thick mucus and any other dirt and debris – and of course to keep the sinus cavities moist. Make sure to use distilled water (can be purchased from any supermarket in the water isle) and a small amount of salt. Similarly – saline packets that can be added to the water are also sold in many drug stores.

Sleep with your head elevated

When you’re not feeling well it’s important to get as much rest as possible and help your body recover. When you do rest it can be helpful to prop your head on some extra pillows to raise it up. This can help alleviate some of the sinus pain and pressure build-up.