An infected or irritated sinus can be just that, irritating.  They can come, then go as quickly as the came, or persist for days, weeks, or even months.  It’s causes can be varied, so formulating a treatment program to meet your unique health requirements is important.

The sinuses are cavities in our facial bones that normally hold air.  Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining of these cavities.  It can result from an unresolved upper respiratory infection, dental infections, environmental allergies, food allergies, exposure to irritants in the air or swimming.  Once the sinuses are inflamed it is difficult to heal because there is limited circulation and airflow in the area.  Lingering or recurrent sinusitis is a signal of an immune system that is overwhelmed.

Symptoms of sinusitis depend on the location of the sinus that is infected.  Pain occurs on the skin overlying the infected sinus and may be felt as a dull aching or a sharp pain.  The pain is worse when pressing on the bone or bending over.  Greenish-yellow mucus can be blown out of a stuffed nose and the voice becomes nasal.  In acute infection, fever, fatigue and facial swelling can occur.

Conventional treatment involves the use of antibiotics or antifungal agents.  This usually takes care of the current infection.  However, the body becomes susceptible to subsequent infections if friendly bacteria are not replaced.  The overuse of antibiotics has also lead to antibiotic resistant strains of various organisms.  Individuals can help to minimize resistance by using antibiotics sparingly and always taking prescriptions until they are finished.

The natural treatment of sinusitis depends on the cause:

•  In cases of sinusitis caused by infection from bacteria or a  virus, supplements to boost the immune system can help fight it.  For fighting infection, consider Echinacea (which boosts the immune system), Oregano Oil (a potent infection fighter and decongestant), Golden Seal (a natural antibiotic), and Vitamin C (a natural immune system booster).  For reducing symptoms, consider NAC (an amino acid that breaks up mucous congestion), and Eucalyptus Oil (reduces congestion).
   

•  In cases of allergenic sinusitis, there are a number of different homeopathic remedies that can be used to for symptomatic relief.  See the list below for more information about these.  The bioflavanoid Quercitin has been shown to reduce histamine levels and allergy symptoms.  So does grape seed extract. Both of these will also reduce inflammation in the sinuses, too.  You can add vitamin C with them, which enhances their effectiveness.  See below for therapeutic dosages.

Perform steam inhalations, or use a humidifier, with added thyme, sage or eucalyptus oil.  Make an onion poultice by placing chopped onions between two pieces of gauze.  Bind it to your neck before going to bed and leave it overnight.

Use hydrotherapy to boost the immune system.  At the end of your shower alternate one minute of hot water with one minute of cold water.  Alternate several times always ending with cold.

Dietary approaches to sinusitis are as follows.  Increase fluid intake to decrease the viscosity of mucous secretions.  A diet high in raw fruits and vegetables provides a good source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.  A deficiency of vitamin A can lead to sinusitis so be sure to eat lots of yellow/orange fruits and vegetables.

Onions and garlic are good sources of substances that make up anti-inflammatory compounds and help to kill microbes.  Flaxseed and fish oils contain essential fatty acids that are anti-inflammatory.

Avoid animal products because they contain inflammatory precursors.  Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, dairy products, processed foods, white flour and sugar products all of which increase mucous production and can aggravate sinusitis.

Twenty-five percent of all sinusitis infections are due to food allergies.  Remove the most commonly allergenic substances from your diet and undergo a food sensitivity assessment to find out what your specific triggers are.  Avoid milk, wheat, eggs, citrus fruits, corn and peanuts.

The following list of supplements can be used for preventing and treating sinusitis.  They are best taken at the first signs of an infection.  Adult doses are given.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS)