Seasonal Sinus Troubles Are Nothing to Sneeze At

Our bodies have a few peculiarities, but overall they are incredibly well designed. Physicians never cease to be amazed at the human body’s incredible capability to function and heal itself. 

But there is one part of our bodies that doesn’t seem to be particularly well crafted. It’s as if Intelligent Design just sort of glossed over this one. I’m talking about our sinuses.

The design of our sinuses leaves much to be desired. For one thing, the sinus drainage hole is at the top of the sinuses. Little cilia hairs have to push mucus up to the hole to drain.

Which would be fine if we spent most of our time standing on our heads. But it isn’t so convenient for those of us standing upright.

For another, the sinus drain hole is the size of the lead in a pencil. If the mucus is too thick, it doesn’t move through the hole but rather blocks it. This is the fundamental cause of sinus pain and pressure.

35 Million-Plus Are Suffering

The good news is, there are some things we can do to gain relief. I’ll get to them in a moment. First, let’s look at how prevalent the problem is. And whether we should consider mucus a friend or foe.

According to webmd.com, approximately 35 million Americans suffer from sinus misery at least once a year. Often in the spring and/or fall. As with most maladies, the real number is probably much higher due to cases going undiagnosed.

The CDC states that 90% of cases of sinus symptoms are not caused by bacteria. Which pretty much rules out antibiotics as a treatment. Especially because antibiotics can kill good bacteria your sinuses need.

A vast majority of symptoms are caused by viruses triggering inflammation, pain and swelling. Some are the result of an immune reaction to fungi or allergens. The worst cases may be caused by a combination of fungi, viruses and bacteria.

Who Is Affected?

People who are more likely to experience sinus problems than others include those with…

  • Viruses in the nose associated with colds and flus. These viruses activate inflammation and thick mucus, and block sinus drainage.
  • Not enough of the right kinds of good bacteria to support a healthy immune response.
  • Allergies that activate an immune response, inflammation, thick mucus and blocked sinus drainage.

Among the symptoms of sinus problems are pressure in the sinuses, nasal or sinus congestion, runny nose, sore throat and headache.

Some folks have breathing difficulties, a cough, post-nasal drip, fatigue from sleep deprivation, and the loss of smell and taste when eating.

Misunderstood Mucus

On the subject of mucus, there is considerable misunderstanding. Mucus is an ally, not an enemy. It provides defense against bacteria, viruses, fungi and pollens.   

Dr. Michael M. Johns III is director of the Emory Voice Center at Emory University. Here’s what he says.

“Mucus is incredibly important for our bodies. It is the oil in the engine. Without mucus, the engine seizes.”

Mucus contains good bacteria that trigger immune cells to destroy invading toxins. It washes away pathogens and flushes out viruses. But only if it maintains its fluidity. Antihistamines dry it out so it can’t do its job. 

Want Some Relief? Try These Ideas

Here are some things you can try to help keep your sinuses functioning properly.

 

  • Use a humidifier to moisten the air in your home.
  • Inhale steam, such as during a hot shower.
  • Eat hot chicken soup and drink hot teas.
  • Drink water.
  • Avoid decongestants that dry out mucus.
  • Break up stagnant mucus and move it out.
  • Avoid close contact with those who have colds and other upper respiratory infections.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Clear viruses out of the nose before they can activate sinus problems.
  • Don’t smoke; avoid secondhand smoke as well.
  • If you are around dust, pollens, tobacco smoke or air pollutants, consider washing out your nose and sinuses with a neti pot.
  • Get plenty of rest. 

Want “Complete” Relief? Try This

My recommendation for effective sinus relief is Sinus Complete. It’s two formulas in one to support sinus health, help you breathe easier and dissolve troublesome mucus that can cause congestion and sinus pressure.

By taking Sinus Complete AM in the morning and Sinus Complete PM before bed, you can get a full day of sinus relief and easy breathing throughout the night.

Instead of drying you out, Sinus Complete breaks up and thins mucus so that it flows naturally as intended. The carefully chosen strains of probiotics in Sinus Complete support sinus health and your immune system.

While sinus concerns can be a year-long issue, many need additional support in response to changing seasons.

The quercetin in Sinus Complete helps support healthy immune function, and provides strong antioxidant and inflammation support, no matter the season.

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