Sinusitis, is when the nasal cavities become swollen and inflamed. A patient with sinusitis may experience cough, congestion, fatigue, fever, headache, and runny nose. 

A cold, the flu, respiratory illness, smoking, a dry environment, and even allergies are all possible causes of sinus infection. If your naturopathic doctor believes your allergies have contributed to a sinus infection, he or she can help by figuring out what you’re allergic to and devising a plan for reducing your reactivity (and hence your symptoms).

There are four types of sinusitis. Acute sinusitis, lasts fewer than four weeks. Subacute sinusitis lasts slightly longer, approximately four to six weeks. Recurrent acute sinusitis happens when a patient experiences an acute sinus infection four or more times within a 12-month period. And finally, chronic sinusitis is an infection that continually occurs and/or lasts for more than 12 weeks.

A healthy immune system goes a long way to protect our body from illness and helps us quickly recover from illness when it does occur. Diet, environment, and lifestyle affect our immune system’s ability to defend the body from viruses, bacteria, and diseases. 

The immune system centers around our white blood cells, which circulate throughout the bloodstream and fight to keep us free from microbial overgrowth. Bone marrow produces millions of blood cells daily and releases them into the bloodstream. Lymph nodes located in the neck, armpits, groin, gastrointestinal system and between the lungs activate and replicate white blood cells sending them throughout the body. Skin and mucous membranes serve as the body’s first line of defense, preventing harmful microbes from entering the body by trapping them in the mucous and secreting oils that stop and destroy harmful substances. The spleen filters pathogens out of the bloodstream. And finally, tonsils and adenoids prevent microbes from entering into the upper respiratory tract and thus help prevent infection in the throat and lungs.

To support your immune system, here are some effective treatments for respiratory illness and sinusitis:

• Alternate between hot and cold compresses by first draping a damp, warm washcloth over the face for several minutes and then switching to a cold, wet washcloth for 30 seconds. Repeat the steps three times. The whole process can be repeated up to three times daily. 
• Work with your naturopathic doctor to figure out the correct combination and dosage of herbal medicine to treat your infection— there are multiple herbs to consider such as horseradish root. 
• Low-Level Laser Therapy, also known as “cold laser treatment,” involves a laser technician using a cold laser to stimulate the body’s immune system and activate healing. Used three times weekly, this treatment has been shown to improve chronic sinusitis. 
• Cold, dry air can cause sinusitis. Doing steam inhalation or using a high-quality humidifier and changing the water regularly can help, especially at night.
• Halotherapy, or salt therapy, can be effective for sinusitis.  Salt exhibits anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it more difficult for microbes to reside in the sinuses.  Inhaling the salt mist particles can also reduce allergic symptoms and improve the movement of mucous.
• Try giving yourself a facial massage using either your fingers or a Gua Sha tool. Use gentle sweeping motions down along the lymph nodes of the jaw and the side of the neck to drain lymph and fluid from the area.

If you suffer from sinusitis, cold, flu, or respiratory symptoms contact your naturopathic doctor to set up an appointment for a corrective treatment plan. We are here to help!

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