Get Rid of Sinus Infection

Sinus infection or sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses (air-cavities inside the facial bone that are lined by mucous membranes) and nasal passages. Mostly, sinusitis is caused due to infection by bacteria, virus, fungi and allergens or pollutants. Other causes include temperature, humidity, poor air quality, weak immune system, dehydration, stress and hormones. The infection causes congestion in the nasal passages, which blocks the drainage of the sinuses, resulting to inflammation.

Symptoms of sinusitis are headache, pain in the eyes, cheek area and nose. A sinusitis patient may also suffer from cough, fever, nasal congestion and bad breath. It is most commonly seen in patients with related illness such as asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases. Also, those people who are prone to allergies or with a compromised immune system are susceptible to sinus infection.

Sinus infection is classified into four types, based on the area of infection and/or pain, namely maxillary (pain in cheek area), frontal (pain between the eyes and behind the eyebrows), ethmoid (pain between the eyes and behind the nose bridge) and sphenoid (pain in the upper areas of the nose). In addition, depending upon the duration of infection, sinusitis can be acute (less than four weeks), subacute (4-12 weeks) or chronic (more than 12 weeks).

Diagnosis of a sinus infection is done on the basis of the symptoms, physical examination and medical history of the patient. Additional diagnosis methods such as biopsy (medical examination, done by removing cells and tissues), ultrasound and CT (Computed tomography) scan are done for confirmation of the sinus infection and its type.

Get Rid of Sinus Infection

Sinus infection can be treated with allopathic medications such as antibiotics. However, there are many cases of recurrent infection even after the treatment; hence, many people opt for herbal remedies that do not have side effects. Let’s see some common herbal remedies, which can help you in getting rid of sinus infection.

Licorice: Licorice is one of the most popularly used medicinal plants. The root part of this plant is used to fight sinus infections. It reduces inflammation and stimulates the immune system, which altogether helps in getting rid of sinus infection. Since, licorice is a powerful expectorant, it helps in thinning of the sputum in the nasal cavities, thereby allowing it to be expelled easily. Care should be taken while choosing this herbal remedy, as there are also licorice capsules available for treatment of stomach ulcers.

Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus, because of its strong antiseptic properties, has been used for sinusitis treatment. One can drink eucalyptus tea or inhale its steam. For inhalation, boil eucalyptus leaves in water and inhale the steam. Inhalation of eucalyptus helps in clearing the nasal passages and also in getting rid of the infection.

Mustard Seed: Take one tablespoon of mustard seed powder and boil in water. Boil until the water is reduced to half. Cool it down to warm temperature and put 1-2 drops in the nostrils with the help of a dropper. This will be helpful in clearing the nasal passages.

Ginger: Ginger is used for headaches and to get relief from nasal problems. It has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties. Mostly, ginger extract is used for curing sinus infections. Prepare extract of ginger by grinding raw ginger and take 1-2 teaspoons daily until you get rid of sinusitis. In addition, one can also take ginger tea regularly.

Cinnamon and Peppermint: Cinnamon and peppermint are other important home remedies. Cinnamon paste can be applied to the head and nose for pain relief. Since peppermint is anti-inflammatory, one can drink tea or inhale steam of peppermint for easy breathing and curing sinus infection.

Apart from these herbal remedies, natural therapy like steam bath is an effective cure for sinus infection. It stimulates the immune system that aids in early recovery from the infection. Also, the causal organisms are weakened or get killed at an elevated temperature. However people with fever, high blood pressure, heart diseases and pregnant women should not take steam bath. It is advisable for people suffering from these ailments to consult with a specialist before undergoing steam bath.

Drinking large amount of warm water and juice that is rich in proteins and vitamins also boost the immune system and help to get rid of sinus infection. One should avoid colds as far as possible, as it elevates sinus infection.