Is your nose stuffy and your head heavy? 6 solutions to sinus problems!

Whether it's a cold during the winter or an allergy at other times of the year, a stuffy nose, pressure, and pain in the sinuses are a common problem for many of us. But if you know what causes it and what exactly to do, you can breathe easy again. Let's talk about this.

What exactly is a sinus?

Simply put, sinuses are a system of small air-filled cavities inside the bones of our skull. The largest of these cavities is about an inch wide. The others are much smaller. These cavities are lined with a pink, smooth tissue called the `(Mucosa)`. Normally, these cavities should be empty. But they can have a thin layer of mucus. Think about it, there are small bumpy parts called `(Turbinates)` inside our nose. These filter the air we breathe in and provide moisture. There is a thin wall called `( Septum )` in the middle of the nose. This is what separates the two nostrils. Most of the time, secretions from these sinus cavities drain into the nose. So why do we have these sinuses? Actually, even experts don't have a firm idea about it. One theory is that they help add moisture to the air we breathe. Another theory is that they help improve our voice.

1. First, let's see what is causing this problem for you.

Some people are more likely to have sinus problems than others. Your sinus passages may be narrow from birth. Or you may have a deviated septum. Nasal polyps can also grow inside your nose and block the passageways.

2. It is very important to maintain the humidity of the environment.

When you live in a dry climate or when you are exposed to the dry air from your AC/Heater indoors, the delicate membranes inside your nose dry out. Then the mucus inside your nose dries up, thickens, and your sinuses become easily blocked. The result is headaches and pressure. The best solution to this is to use a humidifier in your bedroom. But since this is difficult for everyone in our country, steam inhalation is a very good remedy.

3. Clean the inside of the nose thoroughly.

Using a saline solution is very helpful in removing allergens, dirt, and excess mucus from the nose. You can use a saline nasal spray that you can buy at a pharmacy. Or, you can make this mixture at home and use a device like a Neti pot.

Here's how to make saline solution at home:

1. Mix 3 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda well and store in a clean, airtight container. 2. When using, take 240 milliliters (about a large cup) of clean, boiled water and add 1 teaspoon of the mixture to it. 3. Remember: The water used for this must be boiled, purified (sterile) or distilled water. Do not use water directly from the tap. Otherwise, dangerous infections can occur. 4. Now put this mixture in a clean `Neti pot`. Go to the sink, tilt your head about 45 degrees to one side. Place the mouth of the `Neti pot` in the nostril above you and pour the water in slowly. Then the water will go in through your nose and out through the other nostril. Then blow your nose and remove the remaining water. Do the same on the other side.

4. Ways to open blocked sinuses

• Warm compresses: Place a clean cloth soaked in warm water over your face and apply it several times a day. This will help open up your sinus cavities .
• Steam inhalation : Steam inhalation two to four times a day. The easiest way to do this is to close the bathroom door, turn on the hot shower, and wait a few minutes. Then you can breathe in the steam that collects inside the bathroom.
• Drink plenty of water: Drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day. This will help thin the mucus in your body and make it easier to drain.

5. Let's keep the air we breathe clean.

Things in the air around us - air pollution, cigarette smoke, the smell of cleaning chemicals, and hair spray - 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 with high air pollution.

If you have sinus problems due to allergies, you may want to consider an air filter with a `HEPA` filter. However, talk to your doctor before making a decision.

6. Use medication if necessary.

Sometimes, you have to use medications, but these should only be used under medical advice .

Drug type	Functionality and examples
Decongestants (medicines that open the nose)	Reduces swelling inside the nose, reducing congestion and pressure. For example: Nasal sprays (Oxymetazoline, Phenylephrine), tablets (Phenylephrine, Pseudoephedrine). Warning: Do not use nasal sprays for more than 3 days and tablets for more than 7 days.
Pain Relievers	It reduces pain caused by sinus pressure. However, if you want to continue using it for more than 7 days, see a doctor immediately.
Nasal Steroids	Reduces nasal congestion caused by allergies. Also helps treat polyps. For example: Flonase, Nasacort, Rhinocort.
Antihistamines (medicines for allergies)	If your sinus problems are caused by allergies, these may be helpful. For example, types like Cetirizine and Loratadine.

If none of these things help, your doctor will refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT surgeon). You may also need to have minor surgery to remove any debris or scar tissue inside your nose.

Take-Home Message

• Sinus problems are very common. It is important to identify the causes ( allergies , nasal congestion).
• Keep your environment and your body hydrated. Drink plenty of water and breathe in steam.
• Cleaning the nose with saline can remove mucus and allergens .
• Stay away from things that stimulate your sinuses, such as cigarette smoke and strong odors.
• If home remedies do not help or if symptoms are severe, be sure to see a doctor. Avoid using medications for a long time without medical advice.

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