During the fall and winter seasons, sinus infections can be a problem for some people. A sinus infection usually is paired with lots of pain and pressure on your sinus cavity, discomfort, and heavy congestion in your nose, throat, or chest. If you experience sinus infections often, there are things you can do to get some relief. Try out these strategies to help soothe your sinus infection symptoms.
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Resting at Home
When you are fighting an infection, the first thing you may need to do is take time out to rest. Your body may be stressed with the infection, and continuing to do the same busy routine may make it harder to recover. For a sinus infection, you’ll need to spend time at home resting for a few days so it doesn’t get worse.
Drinking Lots of Fluids
Another way you can get some relief from a sinus infection is to drink more fluids. Fluids can help thin thick mucus which could be a problem with a sinus infection. Additionally, blowing your nose constantly may lead to fluid and electrolyte loss, which may also be an issue when you have a sinus infection. Replenishing your body by drinking more fluids may have you feeling more energetic. Focus on drinking clear fluids, such as water, to get the best results.
Eating the Right Things
Your diet may also impact how quickly you recover from a sinus infection. Just like many other illnesses, you should choose wholesome foods to eat when you have a sinus infection. Foods for sinus infection relief include menu options that have antioxidants and help with inflammation. Try adding pineapple, berries, kiwi, and sweet potatoes to your meals throughout the week to get a helpful boost.
Using Saline Solution
Besides medications to help fight the stuffiness and mucus, you can also use saline solution to get some relief. A saline solution can be beneficial if you have thick mucus. Use a saline nasal spray to help clear your nose and make it easier to rest at night. If you are still struggling to breathe a night, you can also try using a neti pot as another tool to clear away the congestion.
Applying a Warm Compress
The sinus pressure that comes with a sinus infection may be painful and make it difficult to get rest. Sinus pressure may be soothed with over-the-counter pain medications or decongestant formulas. Another way you can get instant relief from sinus pressure is by applying a warm compress to your face. You can take a washcloth and soak it in hot water, ring it out, and apply it like a hot towel to your cheek area to soothe your sinuses.
Sitting in a Steamy Room
The last tip is to let steam provide you with some decongestant relief. Warm steam may help clear up your sinuses, especially if you have an infection or a nasty cough. An easy way you can make a steam room is to go to your bathroom, turn on the hot water in the shower, and wait for the space to fill with steam.
Sinus infections are awful, but these strategies can help you feel better. Take time off work or school to give your body some rest.