The sinuses are cranial cavities filled with air. The pressure in this area is very annoying and, at times, painful; the causes are inflammation or irritation of the mucous membrane that lines the cavities. If the sinuses are swollen, they block the natural flow of air and mucus which, by stagnating, create the sensation of pressure and pain that is usually associated with sinusitis. Regardless of the cause, however, there are several ways to relieve the pressure and find relief from the discomfort.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Treatments in Free Sale
Step 1. Use a saline nasal spray
This product helps you clear the nasal passages of mucus and at the same time hydrates the mucous membranes. Use the spray as indicated by the leaflet and be patient, because at the first attempts you will feel some relief, but several applications are necessary to obtain the maximum benefit.
Step 2. Buy a neti-pot
It is a device that looks like a small teapot. When used correctly, it is able to eliminate mucus and irritants that are stuck in the sinuses and to hydrate the latter. Basically you will have to use the neti-pot to run the saline solution or distilled water in one nostril, letting the liquid come out of the other, so that it can eliminate all the germs and irritants; this operation moisturizes and soothes the nasal lining. You can buy a neti-pot at the pharmacy for an affordable price.
Step 3. Take decongestants by mouth
Go to your doctor and ask for advice on which over-the-counter decongestant is best suited to your needs, especially if you already have other conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes or glaucoma. These drugs can be helpful, but they are not effective with everyone.
- The active ingredients of oral decongestants are phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine, the most common side effects of which are irritability, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, slight increase in blood pressure and sleep disturbances.
- Decongestants work by constricting the blood vessels found in the nasal passages allowing swollen tissue to withdraw. This allows mucus to flow and air to pass, resulting in a drop in pressure.
- Medicines that contain pseudoephedrine can be purchased without a prescription, but must be requested from the pharmacist (they are not available on the shelves), as they are suitable for inappropriate use.
- In some countries you will be asked to show proof of identity and your purchase will be registered. All of this is done only to ensure your safety and to control any illegal use of the active ingredient.
Step 4. Try a spray drug
Nasal decongestants in sprays or drops are available in pharmacies for free sale, but you should rely on these with some caution. Although they are of great help in clearing the sinuses and quickly relieving the sensation of pressure, you should not use them for more than 3 days, to avoid the rebound effect.
This term indicates the process by which the body adapts to the drug and a suspension of the latter triggers a return, often in a more severe form, of pressure and congestion. For this reason, try to limit the use of nasal decongestants to no more than three days
Step 5. Try oral antihistamine medications if discomfort is caused by an allergy
Sinusitis, inflammation, and sinus infection can be triggered by an allergic reaction. Try over-the-counter antihistamines that can help you manage your body's immune response and thus give you some relief from symptoms.
Step 6. Take non-prescription pain relievers
Paracetamol, ibuprofen, or naproxen are effective in reducing pain associated with nasal pressure. Furthermore, ibuprofen and naproxen also act on inflamed tissues, limiting inflammation.
Pain relievers also help you manage other symptoms associated with sinusitis, such as headaches and pain that radiates to the teeth
Part 2 of 4: Home Treatments
Step 1. Apply a warm compress to your face
Take a clean, warm, damp cloth, place it on your face to find some relief from the tightness and allow the movement of air and mucus.
Try alternating between hot and cold packs. Follow this pattern: apply the warm washcloth to your face for 3 minutes, then use a cold, damp washcloth for 30 seconds before putting the warm one back on. Alternate the packs for 3 cycles and repeat the treatment about 4 times a day
Step 2. Drink plenty of fluids
In this way the mucus does not thicken and does not accumulate in the sinuses. Try to drink something hot, like a steaming cup of soup or very hot tea, to get some relief from your ailment. In addition, the intake of liquids counteracts the dryness of the mucous membranes caused by over-the-counter decongestants.
Step 3. Eat spicy foods
Some people find very spicy foods, such as chili peppers, to be of great use in reducing the pain and discomfort associated with nasal pressure.
Step 4. Ask your doctor about quercetin and bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme extracted from pineapple, while quercetin is a plant pigment. Both are useful for reducing inflammation, swelling, and other symptoms related to sinusitis. However, you must tell your doctor if you decide to take these supplements, as they both interfere with many medicines and may not be safe for you.
- Bromelain increases the risk of bleeding, so people on anticoagulant therapy should not take it.
- Bromelain also causes a severe drop in blood pressure in patients taking ACE inhibitors.
- Quercetin interferes with some drugs, including antibiotics.
Step 5. Ask your doctor for more details about Sinupret
Studies have found that this supplement (also known as BNO-101), which contains several herbs including elderberry, sorrel, primrose, verbena and gentiana, significantly reduces sinus symptoms. Talk to your doctor to see if it also lends itself to your specific situation.
Step 6. Sleep in a semi-lying position
Try to get plenty of rest in a position that allows you to breathe, such as on your side, if this allows you to keep the nasal passages open. Some people benefit from a semi-recumbent position, with their torso elevated, because it allows for easier breathing.
Step 7. Apply pressure to specific areas of the face
If you press gently on particular areas of the face (above the most important sinuses) you can get a temporary benefit.
Pressure points include the area between the eyes, both sides of the nostrils, the root of the nose, under the cheeks, around the eyebrows, and the area between the nose and lips. Massage, gently press or tap these special areas to release pressure and decrease discomfort
Step 8. Avoid triggers
Pool chlorine causes sinusitis in many people. Other elements that trigger symptoms may be less obvious, such as dust or pollen that accumulates on pillowcases and sheets. Wash all bedding regularly in hot or very hot water to get rid of irritants you may be inhaling at night.
- Some foods have been associated with this disorder and the accumulation of mucus, such as milk, cheese and dairy products in general. We also remember rice, pasta and white bread. Obviously these foods do not have a negative effect on all people; therefore try to identify which are your triggering foods, in order to avoid them and not suffer from sinus pressure.
- Do not drink alcohol when showing symptoms. Alcoholic drinks increase the inflammation of the nasal passages.
Part 3 of 4: Humidifying the Air
Step 1. Keep the air moist
In this way, the nasal passages also remain hydrated and the mucus can flow freely, reducing the pressure. If you breathe in dry air, the mucus thickens and your sinuses become irritated.
Step 2. Use a humidifier
There are many models that vary in size and characteristics. They are generally available as cold or hot nebulizers. Choose the model that best suits your needs to treat and prevent dryness of the nasal passages which, in turn, leads to pressure and congestion.
- Cold humidifiers generally have a filter that must be thoroughly cleaned or changed every few months to prevent mold growth. Most of these devices produce enough "mist" to humidify the air throughout the home and are the safest solution if you have small children.
- Hot humidifiers have a heating element that creates steam. The advantage of this type of device is that the heat used to produce steam kills bacteria and fungi.
Step 3. Let some water simmer on the stove
Put a small pot of water on the stove and let it simmer. This way the air in the house becomes humid, but you must always be vigilant to ensure the safety of all family members. Be very careful with this method, to avoid damage and injury.
Step 4. Breathe in the steam directly from the hot water
Place a towel over your head and, very carefully, place your face over the pan with the simmering water. At this point, breathe in the warm, humid air to relieve the symptoms of a congested nose. This method is very effective for moisturizing the nasal passages, but there is a certain risk of burns, so it is worth trying other techniques first. If you smoke this way, be especially cautious.
Step 5. Put some water near a heat source
Place a heat-resistant, water-filled container near the radiator (but safely) or near another heating element; in this way the water that evaporates increases the humidity rate of the air. The container should not be placed directly on the heater, but close enough so that the water can evaporate.
Consider placing a wet cloth over the heating element to create moisture. When you turn on the heater, wet a cloth and place it on the air vent or radiator. This releases moisture into the air. Be careful not to damage the floor with water or completely block the air intake
Step 6. Open the shower faucet
Let the very hot water run and close the door to the shower cubicle, bathroom and adjacent room for 5 minutes. At this point you can stop the flow of water and open all the doors. This is a perfect way to increase the humidity of the home air. However, this technique is not within everyone's reach because, based on the type of contract stipulated, the water utility could apply very expensive tariffs on extra monthly consumption.
Step 7. Dry your clothes at home
Buy a foldable clothesline or install a bar in a room in the house. Use these tools to hang wet clothes that need to dry or to hang damp clothes on them between laundries.
Step 8. Carefully spray the curtains with water
Grab a spray bottle and use it to moisten the curtains. At this point, you can open the windows and let the fresh air enter the house, charging with humidity through the curtains. Be very careful not to damage the fabric and not open the windows if you are in pollen season or there are other irritants causing your sinus problem.
Step 9. Purchase some houseplants
The United States Geological Society recommends placing indoor plants indoors to improve air quality and humidity. When you water the plant, moisture transfers from the roots to the stem to the pores of the leaves, where it transpires and is released into the air.
Step 10. Place sources of still water in the house
Even a simple bowl with fresh water could be a good solution. Arrange small vases or containers filled with water, perhaps with some artificial flowers or glass marbles throughout the house. Consider placing containers near heat sources, such as heaters.
Purchase an indoor aquarium or fountain. A device that contains water, such as a fountain or aquarium, increases the humidity of the room air. It also decorates the environment and gives it a relaxing atmosphere. Obviously this project requires some extra expense which depends, however, on your personal preferences
Part 4 of 4: Contact the Doctor
Step 1. If your symptoms persist for more than 7 days, get worse or you experience fever, then you should see your doctor
Constant pressure, congestion, pain, or a fever could indicate a sinus infection.
When the nasal passages become blocked due to congestion, the normally produced mucus and bacteria remain trapped in them. If the pressure and congestion don't clear up, then the bacteria triggers an infection, sinusitis. Additionally, you could also develop a viral infection if the initial ailment was caused by a cold or flu
Step 2. Take antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor
If your healthcare provider has determined that you have an infection, then they may recommend antibiotic therapy. Take them exactly as directed and for the duration of the cycle. Even if you start to feel better after a short time, finish the drug therapy, as some bacteria may survive in the nasal mucosa.
Step 3. Recognize the difference between migraine and sinus pressure pain
The discomfort caused by sinusitis is very similar to the headache that accompanies migraines. In fact, studies have shown that 90% of people who go to the doctor for sinus pain actually have a migraine attack.
If you suffer from headaches for more than 15 days a month, if you have to use over-the-counter pain relievers often or they are not effective, if the pain is interfering with your daily life (school or work), then you should definitely see a doctor. doctor. These are the classic warning signs of a migraine
Advice
- Avoid environments filled with smoke and where there are smokers. Smoking irritates and dries the nasal passages even more.
- Do not use a decongestant nasal spray for more than three days, to avoid the rebound effect that causes a worsening of congestion and pressure.
- Do not hesitate to visit your doctor if the pressure you feel in your sinuses does not reduce. This could be an infection that needs to be treated with antibiotics or a more serious condition.
- When showing symptoms, do not drink alcohol, as this substance dries out the nasal passages even more and worsens inflammation.
