Many of us will suffer the miseries of sinusitis at some point in our lives. It is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort around the cheekbones, the nose and forehead and is particularly prevalent during the winter months. Sinusitis literally means ‘inflammation of the sinuses', and these sinuses are the spaces which are filled with air inside your cheekbones, forehead and behind your eyes and nose. Their main role is to warm up the air as it is breathed in and also to relieve the weight of the skull and help with voice resonation; the sinuses do also produce mucus.

Infections are very easily spread from the nose to the sinus area and it is the cheek section which tends to become the most infected but the forehead, eyes and nose can also feel inflamed. Due to the infection, essentially the mucus becomes prevented from draining away and therefore becomes trapped within the sinus area itself, bacterial infections often develop in addition to the viral infection and this can lead to increased pain and of course, an extended time before healing can begin.

It is easy to distinguish sinus problems from those of a traditional cold as the pain tends to be a throbbing pounding sensation which increases if the sufferer bends forward, it is a very unpleasant sensation and other symptoms include headaches, bad breath, and nasal discharge and there is often a sensation of fullness in the face.

Adults are more likely to be affected by this condition but in reality, it can actually occur at any age and it can be especially troublesome for those who suffer with some allergies such as allergic rhinitis. Hay fever sufferers are also at risk. There are many treatments available which can help to ease the pain of a sinus infection but prevention is always better where possible and here are some very useful self -help remedies:

Vitamins and Minerals

As soon as symptoms start, increase intake of Vitamin C and Zinc as this can help to fight off any infection.

Steam Inhalation

Add just a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil to boiling water and breathe in the scented steam to help clear nasal passages.

Garlic

Garlic can help to fight off infections as well as being a natural decongestant, others include chillies and onions.

Massage

Massaging the infected area gently can help to alleviate the pressure, use some aromatherapy oils in a good carrier oil and have the added benefit of inhaling a favourite soothing essential oil

Meditation

Meditation is not simply for relaxation purposes, it can be used in many different ways such as to promote healing for example. Simply focus on the area which needs healing and imagine a vivid blue light filling the sinuses and healing everything it touches. Increase the positive benefits by trying a combination of self-help techniques.