Sinus Infection Remedies

Sinus infection or sinusitis is a condition in which the sinuses and the nasal passages get inflamed due to bacteria or virus. This causes mucus to build up in the sinuses resulting in symptoms like cough, fever and nasal congestion. Sinus infection can be of two types: acute (that appears suddenly) and chronic (that lasts for a longer period of time). Among the two, chronic sinusitis is very common. Sinus infection can trigger off due to a variety of reasons like exposure to air pollution, allergens, changes in weather, etc.

A person suffering from sinus infection experiences a lot of discomfort and hence, it is essential to get rid of the infection as soon as possible. There are several medications available that help in sinus infection treatment. Antibiotics, nasal corticosteroids, decongestants and other over-the-counter medications can help in getting rid of the symptoms of sinusitis. Pain killers can help in getting rid of sinus headache. Apart from these, there are several herbal remedies that are equally helpful. Let us take a look at them in detail.

Home Remedies for Sinus Infection

The following are some of the most effective and natural remedies that help in alleviating the symptoms to a great extent.

• Using Steam: Inhaling steam is one of the best treatment for severe sinus infection. You can have a bath with hot water and inhale steam while having a bath for clearing congestion. On the other hand, you can boil water in a pan, bend over it and inhale the steam. This helps to clear nasal congestion.
• Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil contains natural decongestant properties. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil on a hanky and smell it or add it in boiling water and inhale the steam 2 - 3 times a day for quick relief.
• Garlic Juice: Garlic is considered as one of the best and most effective sinus infection remedies. Garlic contains anti bacterial and anti fungal properties which help in fighting off the infection. You can have a glass of garlic juice once a day to keep sinus infection at bay.
• Hot Fluids: Drinking hot fluids can help in opening up the clogged nasal passages. You can either have hot tea with 1 - 2 slices of ginger it in (ginger tea), hot milk with a pinch of turmeric or hot soups 1 - 2 times a day. Having chicken soup is also considered as an effective sinus infection home remedy.
• Nasal Irrigation: Nasal irrigation is another effective sinus infection remedy to get rid of sinus infection. It is a process where water mixed with salt is used to clear nasal passages and mucus. Neti pot is used for nasal irrigation. Tilt your head sideways and put the spout of the pot into one nostril. Tilt the pot so that water comes out of the other nostril. This should be done until clear water comes out without any mucus.
• Warm Compress: Using warm compress is also an effective remedy. You can place a warm and damp cloth on the nose and eyes for a few minutes 1 - 2 times a day to clear the mucus in the nose.

Apart from these above mentioned sinus infection home remedies, one needs to follow several preventive measures to avoid the occurrence of sinus attacks. It is essential to drink sufficient amounts of water and fluids to thin the mucus. You can even invest in a humidifier to keep the air warm and prevent sinusitis. On the other hand, reduce alcohol consumption and smoking as both can lead to inflammation of the nasal passages. You should also identify the allergens and try to stay away from them.

These were some of the most effective remedies that can be easily followed at home. Lastly, one should note that if the symptoms do not subside after using these home remedies, it is better to consult a doctor. Take care!