Sinus Congestion...
SINUS CONGESTION: WHAT TO DO?
by
Dr. George DeFranca
Sinus congestion, pressure, and headaches are a common malady that strikes many of us, myself included. The sinuses and nasal passages often times become blocked and congested in response to colds, allergies, or anatomical obstructions (polyps or deviated septum). When the small holes that drain the sinuses become blocked by thickened mucus, pressure builds within them and pain often result. As the congestion progresses, a person can becomes very ill, feeling sick and fatigued. If left untreated, a chronic condition can develop leading to chronic coughing, exacerbation of asthma, and general un-wellness. Antibiotics are rarely useful, except in true bacterial infections. Decongestants can help but are often temporary and must be used judiciously. A major goal of treatment is to thin the secretions and maintain mucus flow to avoid blockage. An important aspect of sinus health is the status of the cilia, the small microscopic hairs on the cells that line the nasal passages and sinuses. These small projections beat in one direction at a specific frequency that helps move the layer of mucus that covers the cells. If the cilia are not functioning properly, due to prior infection or a thick mucus layer, the mucus will not be moved and congestion will build. The following are tips that you can use to aid in your sinus health:
1. Reduce the amount of grains (omega-6 fatty acids, breads, cereals, pasta) from your diet. These foods add to inflammation and pain. Increase you intake of omega-3 rich foods (vegetables, fruits). See articles: “Genes and Greens…”
2. Take 2-3 grams of omega-3 supplements per day in the form of lemon flavored fish or cod liver oil.
3. Increase your intake of water and warm liquids and homemade soups (teas) to thin your secretions.
4. Perform regular, daily sinus irrigation to cleanse passageways and stimulate cilia f function:
a. use a Neti pot
b. use the Grossan hydropulse nasal irrigation system.
5. Get plenty of rest
6. Try the “Wet Sock” Treatment (see articles)
7. Increase your intake of vitamin C
8. Refrain from blowing your nose hard, especially with one nostril occluded.
9. If mucus is thick and stringy, making it hard to swallow especially at night, take the homeopathic remedy kali bichromium (“Kali-bich”), 30 C potency.
by
Dr. George DeFranca
Sinus congestion, pressure, and headaches are a common malady that strikes many of us, myself included. The sinuses and nasal passages often times become blocked and congested in response to colds, allergies, or anatomical obstructions (polyps or deviated septum). When the small holes that drain the sinuses become blocked by thickened mucus, pressure builds within them and pain often result. As the congestion progresses, a person can becomes very ill, feeling sick and fatigued. If left untreated, a chronic condition can develop leading to chronic coughing, exacerbation of asthma, and general un-wellness. Antibiotics are rarely useful, except in true bacterial infections. Decongestants can help but are often temporary and must be used judiciously. A major goal of treatment is to thin the secretions and maintain mucus flow to avoid blockage. An important aspect of sinus health is the status of the cilia, the small microscopic hairs on the cells that line the nasal passages and sinuses. These small projections beat in one direction at a specific frequency that helps move the layer of mucus that covers the cells. If the cilia are not functioning properly, due to prior infection or a thick mucus layer, the mucus will not be moved and congestion will build. The following are tips that you can use to aid in your sinus health:
1. Reduce the amount of grains (omega-6 fatty acids, breads, cereals, pasta) from your diet. These foods add to inflammation and pain. Increase you intake of omega-3 rich foods (vegetables, fruits). See articles: “Genes and Greens…”
2. Take 2-3 grams of omega-3 supplements per day in the form of lemon flavored fish or cod liver oil.
3. Increase your intake of water and warm liquids and homemade soups (teas) to thin your secretions.
4. Perform regular, daily sinus irrigation to cleanse passageways and stimulate cilia f function:
a. use a Neti pot
b. use the Grossan hydropulse nasal irrigation system.
5. Get plenty of rest
6. Try the “Wet Sock” Treatment (see articles)
7. Increase your intake of vitamin C
8. Refrain from blowing your nose hard, especially with one nostril occluded.
9. If mucus is thick and stringy, making it hard to swallow especially at night, take the homeopathic remedy kali bichromium (“Kali-bich”), 30 C potency.