Beyond Allergy » Sinusitis

Eucalyptus

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:20:05 +0000

Taking medications is not the only solution to cure sinus problems. For more effective relief of sinus problems, inexpensive homecare remedies are just as effective. One of these homecare remedies that can be done to clear the sinuses is aromatherapy, similar to how inhaling steam can help open up congested nasal passages and sinuses. Eucalyptus or menthol oils can be dropped in a bowl of hot boiled water and the patient can breathe the vapors. Another way to use eucalyptus is to simply inhale the fumes directly from the bottle. Vicks VapoRub, which contains natural aromatic decongestants, is also effective by simply dabbing a bit on the skin underneath the nose. Other aromatherapy decongestants include horseradish and Japanese wasabi mustard.

Inhaling steam

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:19:26 +0000

Sinus infections are usually treated with prescription and non-prescription medications accompanied by homecare remedies. One of these home remedies is using a vaporizer or inhaling steam from a pan of hot water for about 2 to 4 times a day. After the water has boiled, the pan should be taken off the stove and covered with a towel so that the steam remains under the cloth. The patient should find a comfortable position and lean over pan of water and inhale the steam continuously for 10 minutes. As an option, a menthol or aromatic preparation can be added to the water. Alternative to inhaling steam can be taking long, steamy showers or getting a facial sauna.

Afrin etc. (Oxymetazoline)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:18:51 +0000

Afrin (Oxymetazoline) is an over-the-counter topical decongestant which is used in products such as Nasivin, Vicks Sinex and Afrin. It is recommended for the temporary relief of nasal symptoms brought about by hay fever, respiratory allergies, colds, or sinusitis. It relieves stuffiness and congestion. The formulation is made to constrict the blood vessels in the nasal tissues that will lead to drainage and decongestion. Oxymetazoline is generally available as a nasal spray. The relief from each 2-3 sprays per nostril lasts 12 hours. It should be sprayed every 10-12 hours for no longer than 3-5 days.

Warm compresses to the face

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:18:14 +0000

Other than prescribing narcotic or non-narcotic medications for sinus infections, doctors would also recommend homecare remedies to speed up recovery. Facial pain is the common complaint of sinus infection sufferers. The facial pain is aggravated further by headache, purulent drainage, and nasal congestion. One of the best home remedies to relieve the facial pain is to apply warm compresses to the face. This can be done three times a day for around five minutes with a small towel soaked in warm water. Apply the warm soaked towel below and between the eyes to help increase the circulation in the sinuses. A vaporizer and humidifier can also be used to keep the nasal secretions loose and moist. Patients are also advised to drink plenty of fluids during this time.

Zithromax etc. (Azithromycin)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:17:43 +0000

Zithromax is a brand of azithromycin, a kind of macrolide antibiotic medication chemically related to erythromycin and clarithromycin. Azithromycin is commonly prescribed to treat certain bacterial infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, ear infections, skin infections, and some sexually transmitted diseases, and works by stopping the bacteria from growing and harming the body any further. It is normally prescribed for a period of 1-5 days and is to be taken at the same time everyday to ensure efficacy. It should be used as directed. Even if you already feel better, the prescription should be finished. If the azithromycin is stopped too soon, the bacteria might become resistant to the antibiotics.

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:16:42 +0000

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) makes use of specialized handheld laser devices for the treatment of soft tissue injuries. LLLT is also known as “low energy” or “cold laser” therapy and has several therapeutic effects on tissues up to two inches below the skin’s surface. There will be a noticed increase in ATP (Adenosine TriPhosphate) production, cellular metabolism, collagen and enzyme production, and protein synthesis. Blood flow and lymphatic flow and drainage will improve without damaging tissues. In 2002, LLLT was approved by the U.S. FDA for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Currently, it is now used to treat various conditions that involve pain and inflammation of soft tissues and joints such as arthritis, back pain, sport injuries.

Amoxil, Polymox etc. (Amoxicillin)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:16:04 +0000

Amoxicillin is a penicillin-like antibiotic that is effective against bacterial infections such as pneumonia; bronchitis; gonorrhea; tonsillitis, throat infections, laryngitis, infections of the ears, nose, urinary tract, and skin. It works by stopping bacterial growth in the affected areas. Amoxicillin should be taken exactly as prescribed so the infection could be completely eliminated. Continue taking Amoxicillin for the prescribed duration even if symptoms start disappearing. If you miss a dose, take the missed dose once you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your regularly schedule dose. A generic version is available, but the most common brand names are Amoxil and Polymox among others.

Singulair (Montelukast)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:15:32 +0000

Singulair is a prescription medicine approved for control of asthma and seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It can safely be used by adults and children as young as 2 years old for treatment of outdoor allergies, and for children as young as 6 months old for treatment of indoor allergies. It blocks leukotrienes in the body that cause inflammation in asthma and seasonal allergic rhinitis. It is not a steroid and is generally well tolerated according to clinical studies. It comes in 10 mg tablets, 4 mg and 5 mg chewable cherry flavored tablets, or pediatric granules. Therapy is one dosage per day for 3 to 14 days. Since the dosage should be continuous, it cannot be used for an acute asthma attack.

Sinus Rinse (Nasal Irrigation)

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 22:14:49 +0000

Sinus rinses, or “nasal irrigation”, is an inexpensive way to treat sinusitis. It is safe and can be performed daily as needed and is proven to be effective. Nasal irrigation uses warm saline solution to rinse the nasal passages, clear out dried mucus, allow the sinuses to drain freely, and speed up healing of inflamed tissues. There are several devices that can be used. Non-prescription saline nasal sprays purchased in the pharmacy are best for cleaning out mucous from the nasal passages to relieve nasal congestion. Powered irrigation systems are also common like a water-pick with a soft, rubber-tip attachment placed on the nasal opening. There are also traditional devices still used often such as the Indian neti pot, and a number of other liquid formulas.