Winter, spring, summer, or fall – no matter the season, stuffy sinuses are a drag year-round. If you suffer from this kind of congestion, then you’re likely wondering how to clear sinuses and breathe easier. Thankfully, today on the Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists blog, we’ll tell you how to drain sinuses and how to clear sinuses, too. Let’s get started.
What Are Sinuses?
The sinuses are a pair of four cavities that comprise a portion of facial and head structure. In essence, they are channels that help mucus and nasal fluids leave the body. In effect, they act as a filtration system, keeping the nose and face free of bacteria by draining regularly. When the sinuses do not properly drain or clear, excessive build-up can lead to irritation, inflammation, pain, and infection, also known as sinusitis.
Luckily, if you’re wondering how to clear sinuses or how to drain sinuses, there are some ways to facilitate your body’s “natural drainage and clearing” process.
Humidifier
Installing a humidifier into your home can significantly reduce sinus pain and congestion by increasing the moisture content of the air around you. Breathing in moist air will soothe irritated canal tissue and blood vessels in the nose. Humidifiers also help to thin the mucus in your sinuses, making it easier to expel and less likely to build up and threaten infection.
Hydrate
Hydrating is an easy and effective way to ensure that your mucus membranes are functioning properly and able to fend off infections and congestion. Staying hydrated helps to keep mucus thin and able to flow naturally. While sports drinks, juice, and teas can support hydration, water is hands down the best choice to support your efforts if you’re pondering how to drain sinuses.
Warm Compress
A warm compress can be pressed against the face to help relieve sinus pressure, related inflammation, and clear mucus blockage that may be contributing to congestion. Compresses can be purchased at a local pharmacy, though a towel folded and soaked in warm water often works just as effectively as store-bought versions.
Drainage Systems
Aside from knowing how to drain sinuses, you need the right tools to get the job done. There are a variety of different devices on the market that can help alleviate stuffy sinuses by promoting drainage of the nasal passageway. One of the most common devices is called a Neti Pot, and it consists of a small container with a spout-like shape.
The idea is to introduce water through one nostril and have it pass out through the other, effectively flushing your sinuses and allowing them to drain. With Neti Pots, it is incredibly important to use distilled or sterile water instead of tap water, so as to not risk further infection.
Saline Spray
While we are wary of over-the-counter treatments for sinus issues, they can be effective if temporary and immediate relief is necessary. Saline solutions can help to increase moisture in the nose and promote thinning of mucus for easier drainage and clearing. However, some solutions contain decongestants, which can often exacerbate sinus congestion if used improperly or for too long.
Shower
Similar to a warm compress or a humidifier, taking a shower can help to loosen sinus blockage and promote health drainage of mucus because the steam involved will generate a moist environment. Alternatively, if you are not in the mood for a shower, you can achieve a similar effect by inhaling warm steam from a sink filled with hot water.
Find Sinus Relief With Dr. Lee Mandel
Are sinus issues getting you down? At Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists, Dr. Mandel provides a tailor-made treatment plan that can give you the sinus relief you’ve been seeking. Call to make an appointment today at 954-983-1211, or request an appointment online.
