For Americans, sinus problems are a common culprit. Each winter many people find themselves fighting a battle to avoid a sinus infection. Out of habit, many people wish to turn to antibiotics, but by following just five simple tips you can avoid or, potentially, cure a sinus infection.
1. Neti pot. Originally a form of ancient yoga, using the neti pot can dramatically lower your chances of developing a sinus infection. To use a neti pot, you add in about a teaspoon of saline solution and fill the pot with tepid water. The saline solution cleans the the little hair-like structures in your sinuses called cilia. By cleaning the cilia, they are then able to dispose of allergens, dirt, bacteria, and more from your nose with greater ease.
2. Eat unprocessed foods. By eating ggreen vegetables such as spinach, peas, and broccoli hold antioxidants you will boost your immunity of infection. Eating orange-colored fruits and vegetables are also beneficial because they are high in betacarotene. Foods that are high in betacarotene are anti-infective and help to support mucus membranes. These foods would include carrots, apricots, sweet potatoes, and mangoes. Adding onions, garlic, ginger, and chili to your diet are also also beneficial because they have antibacteria properties.
3. Run a humidifier. Anything that you can use to expose your sinuses to moisture will help break up mucus. This can also be done by taking a hot shower or breathing in steam of hot water.
4. Drink herbal teas. Peppermint tea is one herbal tea that works great at opening up the sinuses. Ginger is also another herb that has proven to be effective.
5. Drink water. By drinking more water, you are hydrating yourself more to allow mucus to be thin and pass through more easily. During a sinus infection (or potential one), you should drink between 12 to 15 glasses of water daily. Also, you should preferably drink tepid water as this has a more effective result.
Sources:
http://www.sinushomeremedy.com/sinus-home-remedy/foods-to-avoid-and-eat-during-a-sinus-infection
http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/cold-becomes-sinus-infection
http://www.allayurvedicremedies.com/remedies/sinus-infection.htm
http://www.webmd.com/allergies/sinus-pain-pressure-9/neti-pots