*In collaboration with Day Lewis Pharmacy. As the colder months arrive, it can feel like a minefield trying to avoid all the winter bugs floating around in …
*In collaboration with Day Lewis Pharmacy.
As the colder months arrive, it can feel like a minefield trying to avoid all the winter bugs floating around in the air. Whether it's coughs, colds or even the flu, there's always some sort of germy infection going around during the cold months. The key to staying as bug-free as possible in the Winter is to look after your sinuses and carry out sinusitis treatment if needed.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is a condition that affects the sinuses and nasal passages. It's when the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed or swollen. The sinuses are small, air-filled cavities that sit behind the cheekbones and forehead. It tends to clear up within 2-3 weeks, but for some, it can become a chronic condition.
As someone who suffers from chronic sinusitis, I take sinusitis treatment daily courtesy of a prescribed nasal spray. With my condition, Cystic Fibrosis, my sinuses are one of the areas of my body impacted most by CF. I've had a previous condition called nasal polyps, which used to play havoc with my sinus daily! Thankfully, I'm rid of that issue for now. At the moment, I sometimes get a problem called post-nasal drip. I wouldn't wish this on anyone, as it's the most disgusting nasal problem ever! I won't go into too much detail as I don't want to be too candid and make everyone feel sick! But Google it, and you'll see.
What are the symptoms of sinusitis?
The most common symptoms of sinusitis are:
- Congestion
- Facial pain or pressure (in particular on the forehead, cheeks and around the eyes)
- Sinus headache
- Nasal discharge and/or post-nasal drip
- Reduced sense of smell and/or taste
- Toothache
- Bad breath
- Fever
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
What causes sinusitis?
Many things cause sinusitis:
- Viral and bacterial infections
- Allergies
- Structural abnormalities
- Environmental irritants (e.g. air pollution or smoke)
- Dental infections
I need to keep my sinuses as clear and healthy as possible throughout the year, especially during the Winter - and you should too. These tips I'm going to share with you now not only benefit me, but will benefit you.
Here are tips on how to keep your sinuses clear and healthy for the colder months:
1) Stay hydrated
We are all told to stay hydrated every day anyway, but drinking plenty of fluids in the Winter can help thin mucus, making it easier to drain and relieve pressure. Drinks such as water, herbal teas and warm broths are the perfect fluids to help clear sinuses.
2) Buy a decongestant spray
As my nasal spray is a prescribed medication, I can't offer any advice on what decongestant spray would suit you. Do your research or ask the pharmacist about the best one to buy over the counter.
Photo by Simon Kadula on Unsplash
3) Do a sinus rinse
I do sinus rinses on an as-and-when basis, especially when my sinuses are acting up. Sinus rinses help to reduce inflammation and flush out any gunk that's sitting in your sinuses. Sinus rinses are a great relief for my nasal passages, and I'd be lost without them!
4) Keep your home clean
Dust is a big aggravator for the sinuses. It really irritates them, so it's good to keep on top of the dusting in the house and keep your living space as dust-free as possible.
5) Protect yourself from the cold air
I know that when I go outside when it's cold, my nose runs something awful, and I always need to have tissues to hand. I wrap myself up as warmly as I can, even to the point where I cover my nose with a scarf to keep my nose warm. It sounds daft, I know, but it does work!
6) Wash hands frequently
Very obvious suggestion, I know, but keeping your hands clean and washing them prevents germs from entering your body.
7) Get plenty of rest if the sinuses start acting up
If you have a sinus infection, getting plenty of rest is key to aiding a quick recovery. So put your feet up and take care of yourself if that happens!
8) Use a humidifier
Now, I'm not a fan of humidifiers as they moisten the air, and that can make my lungs feel a little meh. But I know many who like to have a humidifier in their home. Humidifiers are good for adding moisture back into the air, as indoor heating can make the air dry.
9) Use a warm compress
Applying a warm compress to your face can help soothe any discomfort and help with drainage. A warm washcloth easily does the trick.
Looking after your sinuses will definitely help to have an infection-free Winter. There's no way I can guarantee you'll be cold-free this Winter, but it's good to know that by following these tips, you can certainly help yourself stay as germ-free as possible.
Let me know your thoughts!
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