Researchers estimate that approximately 40 million people in the United States develop sinusitis each year. A sinus infection is an inflammation of one or more of the sinus cavities.
The most common causes include a cold, flu, allergies, and deviated septum. Apart from these triggers, you can even get a sinus infection if your home smells like pets as they are prone to bacteria.
Keeping your home clean and sanitized is very important in preventing infections. However, if you already have one, there are some simple home remedies for sinus infections that will help you get better faster. In this article, we list 5 natural ways to manage your sinus infection:
Drink lots of water
While it might seem like a no-brainer, drinking water is one of the best ways to fight a sinus infection. A high percentage of our bodies is made up of water, and it is necessary for many of our bodily functions.
When our bodies are dehydrated, they don’t function at their full capacity. It can also cause your sinuses to become clogged and make the infection worse.
It is recommended that you drink at least 8 glasses of water a day if you have a sinus infection. You can add some lime or lemon juice to make the water taste better and make sure you get the most out of it. Drinking water will flush out your system and help you feel much better.
Use a Neti Pot
A neti pot is a small teapot-shaped device used to clean out the sinuses. It can be used to flush out bacteria and allergens that may be residing in your sinuses, which is especially helpful if you have a sinus infection.
It is helpful in easing the symptoms of allergies and a sinus infection. A neti pot can be used for these conditions because it is able to flush out the mucus in your sinuses and relieve pressure.
If you are suffering from a sinus infection, using a neti pot is an excellent way to flush out the toxins from your sinuses. The process of using a neti pot may be a bit strange at first, but it is well worth it. You can find a neti pot at any drugstore or pharmacy.
Gargle with salt water
Gargling with salt water is an easy home remedy for a sinus infection. Salt water is a natural antiseptic, so it can help clean out the bacteria in your throat and sinuses.
It also helps eliminate excess mucus, which is important because it can help you breathe more easily. To make a salt water solution, mix half a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water.
Be sure to mix the solution very well so that it is not too salty. You can use this solution as a mouthwash, or you can gargle with it. If you gargle with it, be sure to spit it out and do not swallow it. This is a good remedy to use if you don’t want to use any medications.
Eat foods that help fight infection
During a sinus infection, your body needs the nutrients it would normally get from healthy foods. Try to include foods that fight infections such as black or green tea, and turmeric.
You can also eat oranges, apples, and carrots. Other foods that help fight infection include eggs, tomatoes, and almonds.
Also, apart from eating healthier, you can also drink some natural herbal teas. These can help to clear up any congestion in your sinuses and throat, and they taste good, too!
Breathe in the aroma of eucalyptus and lavender
Eucalyptus and lavender are very effective in dealing with the symptoms of a sinus infection. Both these aromatic herbs are useful in preventing and treating a bacterial infection.
You can make an oil out of eucalyptus and lavender, and then, use it as a vaporizer in your room. If you don’t have a vaporizer, you can boil some water and add a few drops of these oils in it.
Next, cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam coming out of the water in the room. The steam will help clear your sinuses and ease the pain. You can also make a cloth out of these herbs and place it near your pillow while you sleep. This will help you breathe better and reduce the pain during your sleep.
Conclusion
Sinus infections are one of the most common health problems. It is important to treat a sinus infection as soon as it starts to prevent it from getting worse.
When you are treating a sinus infection, you should follow a healthy lifestyle by getting enough sleep, drinking lots of water, and eating nutritious foods.
In addition to these lifestyle changes, you can also try some natural home remedies for sinus infections. These include drinking plenty of water, using a neti pot, gargling with salt water, eating foods that help fight infection, and breathing in the aroma of eucalyptus and lavender.