Spring is officially upon you, which means that your nasal cavity is now a feeding ground for seasonal allergies. With all of the pollen in the air, your nose is so stuffy you can't seem to breathe right. When your nose is clogged, it starts to add pressure to your sinuses, which results in headaches that can last all day. Luckily, there are several home techniques you can use that will clear your nose and have you back to breathing like normal in no time.
Drink Fluids
It's the oldest trick in the book, but drinking lots of fluids will help to thin out all of the mucus that is stuffing up your nose. Increasing your daily water intake will alleviate the pressure that is building up in your sinuses by pushing out the mucus that is building up.
Steam
Another great way to decrease the pressure in your sinuses is to inhale steam. Inhaling steam will also remove the buildup of mucus by thinning it out so it drains naturally. Inhaling steam is one of the easiest ways to clear out your sinuses. You can either stand in a hot shower and breathe in the steam while you are showering, or you can use steam from boiling water. Boil a pot of water, cover your head with a towel and breathe in the steam after you have removed the pot from the stove. For an added effect, you can add a little peppermint oil, which is known for opening up and draining the sinuses.
Horseradish
For fast results in clearing out your sinuses, you can use horseradish. Horseradish has been used for years to clear out clogged nasal passages. You can add this spice to anything you are eating. Use one tablespoon of horseradish and you will instantly notice your sinuses draining.
Ginger
Ginger works just as well as horseradish to clear out sinuses. Cut a few slices off of a piece of ginger root and boil it in two cups of water. Once the water starts to boil, lower the heat and let it simmer for about twenty minutes. When you remove it from the heat, place a clean washcloth in the solution and let it soak in. Be careful that the water and ginger root is cool enough to touch, but still warm enough to have the desired effect. Place the cloth on your face and breathe in deeply for about fifteen minutes. Be sure that your head is elevated so that your sinuses can drain naturally.
Allergy season is a killer, but you don't have to let it win. There are several things you can do right at home that will help drain your sinuses and alleviate the pain and pressure so you can get back to your normal, every day life. If you find that you need additional help with clearing your sinuses, consider using a nasal spray like Dymista.
