How To Relieve Sinus Pressure

Dealing with a cold or hay fever is certainly anything but fun. Blocked sinuses can affect your life badly and can be very draining on your energy.

There are so many ways to deal with sinus pressure it can be rather confusing. Have a look around your local drug store and you'll be faced with all sorts of products including nasal sprays, pills and homeopathy along with bath oils.

What Causes Sinus Pressure or Sinusitis?

Before you begin looking for a cure, you need to know that there are different types of sinusitis. The acute type is caused by a viral or bacterial infection and generally lasts for less than 30 days.

Chronic sinusitis on the other hand is cause by allergens, a small sinus cavity or poorly functioning mucous membrane. If your symptoms remain for more than 30 days then you've probably go chronic sinusitis.

There can be a number of causes of irritation to the sinuses such as poor air quality, fungus, dehydration, bacteria, hormones and allergies.

Remedies and Cures

It's wise to try and work out what it is that's causing you're symptoms. Normally viral infections will clear up on its own however for bacterial infections you can ask your doctor about antibiotics.

There are many allergens which could be causing the problems such as pet dander, pollen and dust mites.

Once you have an idea of what is causing the sinusitis you can choose the most appropriate treatment. The good news is that a number of home remedies can help a lot. If your sinus pressure comes with a fever or a headache, then you should see the doctor.

If you are allergic to your pet then your doctor may prescribe medication for this. If dust mites are the problem, use a steam cleaner on your carpeting and bedding. There are also special dust mite covers that you can place over your mattress and pillows. You might even want to consider replacing your carpets with wood, bamboo or cork as they don't hold these allergens.

For a cold try some eucalyptus. Simply place the oil in a bowl or warm water and place the bowl on your lap. Then lean over the bowl with a towel draped over your head. Other oils which work include lavender, tea tree and sandalwood. The idea is to breathe in the vapors created by the warm water and essential oil.

Tea tree oil will work well if you have a cold or a bacterial infection. Tree tea oil has antibacterial properties.

Using a neti pot with warm salt water is great for rinsing out the sinuses. You can do this several times a day. In many Eastern countries a neti pot is as much a part of daily hygiene and brushing your teeth.

Dry air can be another problem which is easily fixed by using a humidifier which introduces water vapour to the air.

When dehydration is the cause, drink more water. The average person should be drinking at least eight 8 oz. glasses a day.