Why are My Sinuses Murdering me?

You feel like your head is full of sawdust, and only fellow sufferers seem to understand.  It happens every year and usually at the same time. 

Isn't winter fun? You get cold dry weather and the constant barrage of poorly maintained heaters. Add to that all of the allergens in the air from poorly ventilated rooms with sneezing sick people in them, and you get the absolute worst possible conditions for your sinuses.

I'm not going to lie to you, sinus problems are a symptom of modern life. There will never be a cure. However, there are certain things that you can do to help.

1) Buy a Humidifier

It is worth the $15 at CVS believe me.

Look down at your leg and notice how ashy it is. The air is amazingly dry right now. The same thing that's going on with your leg is happening in your sinuses. They are dried out.

See if you feel better after a hot shower. If so, it is from the moisture reinvigorating your sinuses. If you honestly want to feel better when you wake up in the morning, either hang your head over a boiling pot of water before bed or get a Humidifier.

*note: Dr Smith gets no kickbacks from the humidifier industry or lobby*

2) Make Sure you Don't Have an Infection

Many people mistake viral infections for sinus irritation. Honestly, the two have almost identical symptoms. The infection may come with a fever if you've got an enthusiastic bug. You may even get some colorful snot when you blow your nose with an infection.

Zinc lozenges and nose spray have become a staple of mine in the winter. The positive charge on the zinc actually causes viral particles to fall apart. If you're looking for "the cure" for a viral infection, here ya go. Unfortunately, it only works in the nose and throat. If you're having that tickle in the back of your throat or sinus problems, go ahead and assume it's an infection an buy some zinc. You'll know in a day or two if that was the problem.

Colloidal silver also works, but it packs more of a punch and costs more. I recommend it for flu episodes. It is pretty much overkill on a sinus infection.

3) Clean and Air Out Your House.

I previously mentioned this when discussing allergies. It holds true here for all the same reasons. Sinus irritation is often from air-borne allergens. If you are having problems go ahead and clean up your house. Change the air filters in your heater and wipe down all surfaces with a wet rag. Worst case scenario, you have a clean house.

 

Morgan Smith, DC

February 16, 2007