How to Deal With Sinus Challenges

Sinus pressure is caused by infected sinuses or sinusitis. Sinusitis is often triggered by an allergic reaction or immune response. When we are exposed to allergens and pollutants on a daily basis, our sinuses can become blocked and our lymph glands sluggish. The symptoms of sinus pressure can mimic other health problems including headaches, ear pain and hearing problems, dental pain, eye pain, as well as the expected, painful sinuses. A lot of people suffer from sinus pressure and related headaches.

Draining the sinuses and lymph glands can help to relieve sinus pressure. The way this is done is by massaging the muscles of the scalp, face and neck. This not only relieves sinus pressure, it also relaxes and tones facial muscles. It will also help to prevent the accumulation of toxins in the area massaged. Massage for sinus pressure is best done using aromatherapy oils to assist in elimination of toxins, improvement of blood circulation and healing of damaged tissues.

Sinus pressure or congestion is caused when our body releases histamines. Histamines are actually produced and released by our bodies to keep us safe from bacteria and allergens. They are one of the human body's natural defenses. Although the mucous caused by exposure to environmental or dietary ‘triggers' can often be cleared up by taking antihistamines, other more natural treatment methods are preferable since they do not have side effects or lower immunity.

Here are some safe and natural ways to deal with sinus pressure while supporting your immune system so that it doesn't overreact to the release of histamines:

Some environments trigger sinus congestion. It is important to become aware of the impact of certain environments and either change the environment or remove yourself from it. Cigarette smoke, mold, certain fragrances, animal dander or hair, for example, can all trigger allergic reactions and sinusitis. As much as possible do not remain in the vicinity of people who are suffering from colds or the flu as these can also lead to sinus pressure. It is also important to stay warm. If you get too cold, it can take a lot of energy for the body to warm back up. This can rob your immune system of necessary energy to deal with threats.

Echinacea, lemon, ginger and mint teas are not only refreshing, but natural immunity boosters. By drinking herbal teas regularly, you will strengthen your immune system and protect yourself against sinus congestion. If you do experience sinus pressure, the effects are more likely to be limited and quickly alleviated.

Sometimes sinus pressure can be alleviated by simply having a hot shower, however it is not always possible to have a shower and for more serious conditions, longer and regular exposure to steam may be required. A facial steam bath with a couple of drops of essential oil can relieve sinus pressure quickly and easily. It is easy to make your own steam bath by pouring boiling water into a large, heat resistant bowl. Put a couple of drops of essential oil into the water, put a towel over your head, and bend over the bowl. The steam will open up your nasal passages and loosen up the mucous making it easy to get rid of. Inhale the steam through the nose for about five minutes. If you begin to feel uncomfortable you can lift your head from the steam for a couple of seconds and take a break before returning.

You can also take advantage of professional steam baths or saunas at health clubs or spas. You may be able to enjoy the effects of steam and a facial massage one after the other by booking in to one of these facilities.

A vaporizer, which releases steam throughout the night while you are sleeping, can also be used to clear sinuses and give you a good night's sleep at the same time.

Eucalyptus oil can be added to boiling water to clear the sinuses. Peppermint is also a good oil for this purpose. You can use a few drops in a bowl or you can place dried herbs directly in the water. For example, eucalyptus leaves can be left to steep in boiling water for a few minutes before you begin your treatment. It produces a vapor that can inhibit the growth of bacteria while soothing blocked sinuses. As well as eucalyptus and peppermint, tea tree, pine, rosemary, thyme and geranium essential oils are also used to relieve sinuses.

Some foods cause mucous and should be avoided if you are prone to sinus congestion. Dairy products in particular stimulate the production of mucous and many packaged foods have some dairy in their ingredients. Wheat is a common allergen which can also cause sinus congestion. If you are allergic to certain foods, it is a good idea to avoid them. If you are not sure, it is not difficult to be tested for allergies.

If you regularly experience sinus pain and congestion, you may find it helpful to visit a qualified herbalist or homeopath. Many naturopaths have both skills. Undergo a complete evaluation and see if the therapist can find the underlying causes of your condition and treat them. The right remedy or combination of remedies can give your body the help it needs to heal itself.

Sinus pressure can be very uncomfortable but there are many natural and safe ways to deal with it. Next time you experience a sinus infection or sinusitis why not try some of these suggestions and get some relief?