When functioning correctly the job of the sinuses is to filter the air of bacteria and pollutants utilizing mucus and the small hairs that line the nasal cavities. In normal situations this works fine however swelling and infection can impair this function as a result of a cold or allergy. Such sinus infection (sinusitis) results in symptoms such as pain around the nose and eyes, a high temperature and headache and makes the sufferer feel generally unwell. Although sinusitis may have you feeling miserable, there are several steps you can take to help relieve the symptoms of sinus infection such as:

1) Breathe In Some Steam

Sinus pain occurs when the mucus backs up and stops draining from the sinus cavity adequately. To get the drainage working again try breathing in some steam by placing your head over a pan of hot water a couple of times a day.

2) Small Humidifiers

These days' small humidifiers are available and are ideal for preventing the sinuses from drying out. Maintaining the moisture levels within the sinus cavity will allow proper drainage and help prevent problems from arising.

3) Flush Nasal Cavities

It is a good idea when experiencing sinus problems to flush out the nasal cavities regularly. A pinch of baking soda, teaspoon of salt mixed into 300ml of water in a squeeze bottle is ideal as are commercial saline nasal sprays.

4) Stay Hydrated

Drinking clear drinks (both hot and cold) will help to keep the mucus draining from the sinuses correctly. Some herbal teas such as sage, anise and fenugreek are also good at maintaining mucus drainage from the sinus cavity.

5) Stop Smoking

Smoking irritates and inflames the linings of the airways throughout the lungs and sinus cavities. Kicking the habit will do wonders for persistent sinus infections as the cigarette smoke irritates the sinuses and increases mucus production as a result.

6) Massage and Heat

Gently massaging the sinuses can help blood circulation to the area and give some relief. Applying a hot pack or wash cloth soaked in hot water will also help to loosen mucus and improve blood-flow to relieve sinus pain also.

7) Nasal Spray Overuse

Overuse of nasal spray medication can sometimes do more harm than good. Using such sprays repeatedly causes swelling and irritation of the nasal linings which bring rise to more mucus production and the whole infection process starting all over again.

In many cases the simple remedies are the best and using the tips outlined above will bring some relief to the discomfort associated with sinus infections and shorten the recovery time from the symptoms of the infection. By choosing all-natural treatments and taking steps to reduce the number of contributing factors in the cause of sinus infection you will see an improvement in the symptoms and significant savings as apposed to store bought drugs.