SINUSITIS: DO’S AND DON’TS

Sinusitis Do’s and Don’ts | Dr. Neetu Modgil Explains

You may have chronic sinusitis when the areas (spaces) within your nose and head become inflamed and swollen for up to three months or longer, despite treatment. This common condition causes your nose to become stuffy. Sinusitis can hamper the regular drainage of mucus. It may be hard to breathe through your nose, and the region surrounding your eyes may become puffy or uncomfortable.

You may have swelling in the lining of the sinuses due to growth, deviated nasal septum, polyps or infections. If you have these conditions, you will become prone to chronic rhinosinusitis. It can affect both adults and children. Long-term sinusitis can lead to obstructive sleep apnea – which can cause persistent headaches.

Sinusitis Do’s and Don’ts: Here are some measures you should follow if you have sinusitis:

DO’S

Stay hydrated

During an episode of sinusitis, stay hydrated. Herbal tea, for example, can be soothing. A warming cup isn’t only a psychological pleasure, but also – according to research, hot liquids can help in the relief of nasal congestion.

Use warm compresses

Wet heat can help alleviate sinus strain, open up clogged nasal passages, and ease symptoms. Apply a damp towel to your face or inhale steam via a towel. Mucus can be loosened by taking a warm bath.

Check your OTC medicines carefully

Do you have pain in your face or head? It may be helped by taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Cough suppressants and nasal sprays can help free up a blocked nose, but only for a few days at a time. But in the long run, they may aggravate your symptoms with the passage of time.

Go to school or work

If you’re afraid of spreading sinusitis to your friends or colleagues, take a deep breath. It isn’t spreadable. If you feel quite well, return to your normal routines – to your school and work.

Make use of a Humidifier

Cool mist can make you less stuffy, but make sure you keep the water clean. While humidifiers are good but they potentially emit microorganisms and minerals. The residue and aerosols can bother people with COPD and asthma. Therefore, to avoid this problem, use sterile or distilled water.

Rinse your sinuses

Sinus flush or nasal irrigation is the fancy term for it. You can use a sterile or hygienic solution to clean the inside of your nostrils. You can buy squeeze bottles specifically designed for this purpose. Every time you do this, ensure that you’re using purified or sterile water, or cooled-down hot water.

DON’TS

Don’t smoke

Your aim is to calm, not irritate, your nostrils. So, remain indoors when air pollution levels are too high and avoid areas where cigarette smoke is present. Quit smoking if you’re a smoker. You’re more prone to have sinusitis again because of your tobacco use.

Don’t go to the pool

The results of previous research are inconsistent, but it appears that chlorine in swimming pools can hurt your nasal airways. Use nasal clips if you feel healthy enough to work out and would like to swim.

Don’t consume alcohol

You’ll need a lot of water, but avoid drinks, wine, and whiskey. Even though alcohol is a liquid, it dehydrates you. It can also prompt your sinuses and nasal lining to swell, which exacerbates your discomfort.

Don’t fly

If you, do it while suffering from sinusitis, you may risk developing earache and other consequences. However, if you really want to fly, yawn and chew when the plane is climbing after takeoff or descending before landing. This will aid in keeping the tubes connecting your neck and ears free. Try pinching your nostrils, closing your mouth, and gently blowing your nose.

Bottom Line

Sinus infections are curable, and most patients get permanent relief from sinusitis without the need for antibiotics. Yet, if you have recurring or chronic sinus infections, consult your ENT doctor. Sometimes pain can aggravate if you neglect and the infections can become recurrent and chronic. This may usually happen if your chronic sinus problem is due to any underlying problem – such as nasal polyps or a deviated septum. In any situation, it is always better to follow these sinusitis dos and don’ts.