How to Treat Sinus Infections at Home
Sinus infections can be incredibly painful. When you have a sinus infection, the sinus cavities are swollen and often filled with mucus. This results in great pressure throughout your entire head. In order to relieve that pain, you must reduce the swelling in the sinus cavities. Your doctor can provide you with prescription medication to alleviate sinus symptoms, but there are also many things you can do at home to treat your sinus infection.
Things You'll Need
- Shower
- Fluids
- Water
- Towel
- Bowl
- Peppermint oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Sinus decongestant
- Spicy foods
- Humidifier
- Pillows
Instructions
-
-
1
Take a hot shower. The steam from the shower will loosen phlegm and relieve sinus pressure. Since you will be most congested first thing in the morning, start your day with a hot shower.
-
2
Drink lots of fluids. Stick to clear liquids such as water and juices. Fluids will help to flush bacteria and toxins from your body and clear your nasal passages. You can also consume hot liquids which will soothe your throat and loosen phlegm.
-
-
3
Fill a bowl with boiling water. Place a towel over your head and hold your head over the bowl. Breathe deeply to inhale the steam. The vapors will penetrate your sinuses, helping to thin mucus and unclog the passages. Keep breathing the steam for approximately five minutes. Repeat this every few hours as needed.
-
4
Try aromatherapy. Hold a container of peppermint or eucalyptus oil underneath your nose and breathe in deeply several times. Both essential oils help to clear sinuses and relieve pressure.
-
5
Take an over-the-counter sinus decongestant. Such medications work to clear mucus, reduce inflammation and relieve pressure in your sinus cavities. Take the pills with food to avoid stomach irritation. Most decongestants will last between four and 12 hours.
-
6
Consume spicy foods. Foods such as wasabi and chili pepper flakes help to clear your sinuses. Breathe deeply as you consume the food to ensure the vapors permeate your sinus cavities.
-
7
Sleep with a humidifier in the room. Humidifiers moisten the air, helping to clear your sinus passages. You can find humidifiers at most pharmacies and drug stores.
-
8
Elevate your head while you sleep. Place an extra pillow or two underneath your head. This will help to drain mucus from your sinus passages. If you lie flat, mucus will accumulate in your head, exacerbating your sinus pressure and pain.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Get plenty of rest. Sleep is essential in order to recover.
Avoid dairy products. They will worsen your mucus.
