It is difficult to breathe through the nose when there is excess pressure on the sinuses. This pressure is usually caused by a build-up of mucus in the sinus region. When it comes to relieving sinus pressure, there are methods which can be carried out at home including steam therapy. If this does not work, then it may be necessary to see a physician who may prescribe antibiotics or other non-prescription medication. If all this fails, surgical removal of the mucus may be the final step.
Sinus congestion can be treated at home. Boil water in a kettle or use hot water from the shower for steam therapy. The use of moisture and heat is an effective means of eliminating mucus from the system. Heat and moisture are combined in the form of steam.
Once water boils at 100° Celsius (212° Fahrenheit), it becomes steam which starts to rise. This must be inhaled so that it enters the sinus cavities. A cloth soaked in warm water should also be placed on the face for several minutes at different times throughout the day. It is also a good idea to turn a humidifier on during the night to ensure there is plenty of moisture in the air. It is also important to drink large amounts of fluids during the day; hot tea is a good choice.
It is possible that relieving sinus pressure is not possible at home. This may be because there is a sinus infection present. The infection may only be cured with antibiotics so a trip to the doctor is necessary.
There are a number of readily available forms of medication for relieving sinus pressure immediately. Decongestants offer fast relief but this effect only lasts for a few days at the most. Once this period has elapsed, the congestion can return.
Saline mist is another method of relieving sinus pressure which may prove to be more effective than decongestants. The mist will cause the mucus to break up and which should ease some of the pressure on the sinuses. A number of oral medicines such as tablets and sachets of powder designed for colds and flu can also be utilized. Again, this only offers relief for a limited time.
If home remedies and medication prove to be ineffective means of relieving sinus pressure, surgery may be necessary. Sinus allergies of a fungal nature are serious and are likely to require a surgical procedure to completely relieve sinus pressure. An ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) may be required to perform an operation which involves draining mucus from sinuses. The doctor may also elect to perform other minor procedures to ensure excess sinus pressure does not return.
