Nasal irrigation can be useful for removing airborne allergens such as pollen and relieving nasal congestion. A saline solution is administered to the nasal passages by a neti pot, squeeze bottle or similar device. The saline solution can be either isotonic or hypertonic. Isotonic solutions have the same salt concentration as your body whereas hypertonic solutions have a higher salt concentration. Hypertonic solutions may be more useful at drawing moisture from the nasal passages and relieving nasal congestion. Nasal irrigation improves cillary function within the sinuses (the drainage mechanism).
Unfortunately nasal irrigation does have it’s drawbacks. Particularly stubborn infections do not respond to this treatment. Some people find that the mucus membrane lining their sinuses is irritated by hypertonic solutions. It does not reduce the level of histamine released during an allergy response, therefore it is not always effective at relieving the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and hay fever. It does not provide immediate relief from sinus pain, pressure, headaches etc. The process can be awkward, takes time to carry out and many people don’t like it . It also usually has to be carried out in the home and it therefores lacks convenience.
Many sinusitis and sinus allergy sufferers have benefited from the following natural treatments.
Naturally formulated nasal sprays – Naturally formulated nasal sprays such as SinuSoothe are extremely effective at treating sinusitis, allergies, hay fever, rhinitis, cold and nasal spray addiction. It’s active ingredients have a multitude of properties and it provides immediate relief from nasal congestion, sinus pain, headaches, runny nose etc. For sinusitis sufferers it is extremely effective at getting rid of bacterial and fungal infections. Whereas for allergy sufferers it desensitizes the nasal passages to allergens. Therefore it is not just a quick fix solution but also a long term one. It is recommended by doctors and even used by them to treat their own sinus conditions. It is completely safe to use regularly and the ingredients are clinically proven.
Herbs/supplements to reduce histamine – Butterbur, quercetin etc. all reduce histamine and therefore relieve the symptoms of allergies. They can be just as effective as their pharmaceutical counterparts but do not cause their side effects. These take longer to take effect and need to be taken before the allergy season starts, or all year round if required.
Boosting immune system – Eating a balanced diet and supplementing with good quality vitamins etc. will improve immune system function and your ability to fight infection. Vitamin C, vitamin B complex, garlic and a multi-vitamin & mineral would help boost your immune system. A strong immune system and taking vitamins also helps allergy sufferers reduce their allergic response. Your local health food store should be able to advise you.
Herbs/supplements to reduce inflammation – Omega oils, turmeric, vitamin C etc. are all excellent natural anti-inflammatories. By reducing inflammation, sinusitis and sinus allergy symptoms can be vastly reduced. After all, the symptoms of sinus conditions all have a common enemy – inflammation. It can take several weeks for these to take effect but unlike their pharmaceutical counterparts, they don’t cause side effects.
Nose gels – These can be applied to the inner lining of the nostrils and are effective at trapping pollen, dander etc. before they get in to the nasal passages.
Before using new treatments it is always advisable to speak with your doctor first.
Want to find out more about an nasal irrigation, sinusitis and other sinus conditions then visit Helen Miller’s site at www.sinusoothe.com. Helen Miller BS is one of the worlds leading sinus experts.