Are you currently sneezing, coughing, and all clogged up with mucus? Well, it sounds like you are suffering from the common cold or flu and that is probably what most people would assume right away. However, it is entirely possible that you are dealing with a sinus infection. With that being said, you are probably wondering how you can tell the difference between the two and what you can do to treat the condition. Below, this is exactly what you are going to learn, plus much more.
What is a Sinus Infection?
Normally your sinuses are filled with air, but when you have a sinus infection the airways become blocked due to inflammation and swelling. Unfortunately, when the airways become blocked with fluid, it can cause bacterium to develop and grow, which will eventually lead to infection.
Paranasal sinuses produce what is known as mucus, which picks up those contaminants and dispels them from the body. When the sinuses are not working properly, they will give away to a bacterial infection, ranging from acute to chronic.
Interrupting the Symptoms of a Sinus Infection
It is true that a lot of the symptoms for a sinus infection and the common cold are very similar. However, if your symptoms persist from more than 10 days there is a very good chance that you are dealing with a sinus infection rather than just a common cold. Below, you will discover of the signs and symptoms that can be associated with a sinus infection.
- Pain and pressure around the eyes and face
- Thick, yellow discharge from the nose
- Headaches
- Blockage of the nose airways
- Coughing
- Fever
- Extreme congestion
6 Natural Remedies for Sinus Infections
1. Flushing Your Nasal Passages
Over the years there has been a lot of debate about what will and what will not work for a sinus infection. However, saline sprays and washes like the neti pots have proven to be extremely effective. These pots and treatments are so effective because they have the ability to thin the mucus in the nasal region, while flushing out the passages. Whether you are suffering from a sinus infection, sinus pain, the common cold, or allergies, the neti pot can greatly ease your symptoms and bring you that much-needed relief that you seek.
2. Activate Pressure Points
If you have ever experienced an extreme sinus infection, you already know that this condition can put tons of pressure on your eyes and face. In fact, in some severe cases it probably feels like your face is swelled and ready to pop. However, just the simple alleviation of certain pressure points can go a long way in providing relief to your nasal passages and helping you breathe.
3. Hot Tea With Pepper
It has been well known for years that certain teas can have a lot of healing and calming effects on the body. However, you might be surprised to learn that drinking hot tea with pepper can work wonders when it comes to clearing up the nasal passages. In fact, drinking hot tea can clear your nasal passages in two different manners. For instance, when sipping on the hot tea, the rising vapors will enter the nostrils and thin out the mucus. When you combine this with the anti-inflammatory agents, tea really is the ultimate solution to your sinus problem. Crushed peppers can even enhance the healing processes.
4. Warm Compress Triggers Sinus Flow
When it comes to a sinus infection, it feels like everything in the nasal region has just stopped, except for all the mucus that is draining out of your nose. If you want to relieve your congestion you can apply a warm compress to the forehead, nose, and upper cheek areas. Simply, just get you a hot towel and place it in these areas, making sure that there is skin contact. This will greatly relieve the pressure that you are feeling. Not only will it relieve the pressure, but also it will actually trigger sinus flow, and get things moving again in the nasal region.
5. Drink Ginger Tea
Ginger is a well-known herb that has been utilized for centuries to flavor foods and treat a wide range of conditions. People with sinus infections can definitely benefit from ginger, as the herb contains dietary polyphenols, such as EGCG, gingerol and quercetin. Dietary polyphenols are not only capable of inhibiting the secretion of mucus produced by the paranasal sinuses, but also capable of maintaining the normal movement of cilia found in the respiratory tract.
Cilium is responsible for protecting the respiratory tract from microorganisms. These hair-like structures are continuously moving in waves to capture viruses, bacteria and chemicals, causing them to get trapped in the mucus. So, they will be dispelled from the body instead of inhaled into the respiratory tract.
All you need to create a delicious homemade ginger tea is a two-inch piece of fresh ginger root, one cup of hot boiling water and two teaspoons of honey. Just grate the ginger, place it into the hot water, steep for about 10 minutes and strain. Add the honey and enjoy. Ginger tea is also a much safer alternative treatment for common colds, coughs and nasal congestion than over-the-counter medications.
6. Consume Garlic
Herbalists and naturalists describe garlic as “nature’s antibiotic.” If you ever find yourself dealing with a sinus infection, you better hope you have garlic on hand. This amazing herb contains properties that work in the same manner as antibiotics. However, to receive the benefits you will need to eat the garlic crushed and raw. Instead of adding it to your foods, while you are cooking or baking them, you should wait and sprinkle it on the food right before mealtime.
Yes, garlic has a potent flavor and scent, but if you are suffering from a sinus infection, you may actually find these qualities desirable. Just crush the garlic and sprinkle it on your salad, pasta or whatever foods you are eating.
The allicin found in garlic has the capabilities to treat fungal, bacterial and viral infections. Just a few cloves of garlic will go a long way in treating these conditions. Plus, it is a much safer alternative to prescription antibiotics and viral medications.
If your symptoms persist after trying a natural remedy, consult your healthcare professional.
Do you know any other natural remedies for sinus Infections? Share them in the comments section below!
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