Sinus Infections

Your head feels like it weighs one hundred pounds, your forehead is throbbing, there is an overwhelming pressure around your eyes and you can't stop blowing your nose. Do these symptoms sound familiar? They are the symptoms of a sinus infection.

The sinuses are cavities in the front of the skull. These air-filled pockets are lined with mucous membranes, which have the important task of moisturizing the air we breathe. Infection of these cavities leads to inflammation, the overproduction of mucous, clogging, pressure and headache.

Acute sinusitis is often the result of a cold. Chronic sinusitis can stem from allergies (a whole other subject itself), a depleted immune system and sometimes even dental infections. Chiropractic has been shown to help boost your overall immune system; this boost can be especially beneficial to those with sinus problems as well as during cold, flu and allergy seasons. Adjusting the spine often alleviates sinus inflammation. While this may seem unusual, the theory is that by correcting posture, blood circulation improves and more oxygen is provided to your cells. This increases the overall health of your body and often boosts your body's ability to fight infection. A healthy immune system means resistance to disease, allergies and chronic illnesses.

Natural Alternatives to Sinusitis Medicine

Many chronic sinusitis sufferers find lasting relief after eliminating dairy products from their diets. Dairy products are famous for being mucous producers and that certainly doesn't help any when your sinuses are clogged. Massaging the face over the sinuses may ease sinus pain. There are a number of acupressure points on the face that can be massaged causing the sinuses to drain. Apply warm, wet towels over the nasal area, cheeks, and forehead at the first sign of sinus problems. Drinking hot liquids can help free clogged sinuses. Spicy foods that contain cayenne pepper are wonderful for clearing the mucous membranes of the sinuses. Avoid cigarette smoke. If you smoke, QUIT!!!! Smog and environmental pollutants can aggravate sinus problems. Invest in an air cleaner. Drink lots of water. Fully hydrating your body will keep mucous thinner and it will drain more easily from the sinuses. There are also a number of herbs and supplements that can be taken to boost the immune system and help with allergies.

You don't have to put up with sinus pain or the side effects of sinusitis medicine. Stop treating the symptoms and start at the root cause.