Do you suffer from sinus problems all the time? Try these 6 simple steps!

It's very common to experience a stuffy nose, a heavy head, and facial pain when you have a cold, or for some people , seasonal allergies . But if you know what causes this and what exactly to do, you can get rid of this trouble and breathe easy again. Let's talk about this simply.

1. First, let's find out why you're having these problems.

Some people are actually more likely to have sinus problems than others. Maybe the passages inside your nose that lead to your sinus cavities are a little narrow from birth. Or maybe you have a deviated septum . Sometimes, there are growths inside your nose, called ``Nasal Polyps,'' that can form and block the flow of secretions.

Whatever the reason, the most important thing is to keep the nasal passages open and unclogged. Only then can the secretions that accumulate inside drain out properly.

So what are these sinuses?

Simply put, sinuses are a system of cavities inside the bones of our skull . They are connected to each other. The largest of these cavities is about an inch wide, and the others are much smaller.

• Behind your cheekbones are the largest sinus cavities , called the maxillary sinuses .
• In the middle of the forehead, above the eyebrows, are the frontal sinuses.
• Between the eyes are the `(ethmoid sinuses)`.
• Deep inside and behind the nose are the sphenoid sinuses.

These cavities are lined with a pink, smooth membrane called the `(mucosa)`. Normally, these sinus cavities are only lined with a thin layer of mucus, meaning they are empty most of the time. Most of these cavities open into the nose through a small passage called the `(middle meatus)`.

2. It is very important to maintain moisture.

If the environment we live in is dry, especially in AC rooms or in countries with heaters, this dry air dries out the delicate membranes inside the nose. What happens when this happens? The mucus inside the nose dries out, thickens, and easily blocks the nose. The result is pain and pressure.

The best solution to this is to use a humidifier, a device that adds moisture to the air, in your bedroom.

3. Clean the inside of the nose thoroughly.

It is very good to use a saline solution to remove allergens, dust, dirt, and unwanted mucus from the inside of the nose. You can use a saline nasal spray that you can buy at a pharmacy.

Or, you can make this salt water at home and rinse your nose using a device like a ``Neti pot.'' This is like a small teapot.

How to make salt water at home:

Mix 3 teaspoons of canning or pickling salt (without iodine or preservatives) and 1 teaspoon of baking soda together and store in a clean, airtight bottle. When using, take a teaspoon of this mixture and add it to a cup (about 240 ml) of previously boiled or `(distilled/sterile)` water and dissolve it well. (Do not use regular tap water).

Put this mixture in a clean `(Neti pot)` and tilt your head about 45 degrees over the sink. Now place the mouth of the `(Neti pot)` in the nostril above and pour some water in. Then the water will flow out the other nostril. Then blow your nose repeatedly to remove the remaining water. Do the same for the other side.

4. Ways to unblock blocked roads

• Warm compresses: Soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it over your face several times a day. This will help open up your sinus cavities.
• Steam your nose: Steaming your nose two to four times a day can help keep the moisture inside your nose. An easy way to do this is to close the bathroom door, turn on the hot shower, and stay in the steamy area for a while.
• Drink plenty of water: Drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day. This will help thin the mucus in your body and nose, helping it to drain more easily.

5. The environment you live in also affects you, keep it clean.

Things in the air around you – like air pollution, cigarette smoke, cleaning products, and hair sprays – can make your sinus problems worse.

If you smoke, now is the best time to quit. Stay away from places where other people smoke. Stay indoors as much as possible on days when the air is very polluted.

Some people install a ``(HEPA)`` filter in their bedroom. This can remove allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air. However, this does not work for everyone. If your sinus problems are caused by allergies, talk to your doctor about whether this type of filter is right for you.

6. Let's get relief by using medicines.

Sometimes, in addition to these things, medications are also needed. However, it is safest to use them under medical advice.

If none of these things help, your doctor will refer you to a specialist, an ear , nose, and throat (ENT) surgeon. You may also need to have minor surgery to remove any lumps or other obstructions in your nose.