Your Guide to Winter Sinus Relief

 Florida Ear Nose Throat

Facial Plastic Surgery Center

877-EAR-NOSE

www.FloridaENT.com

Feeling the effects of a winter sinus infection? Don’t worry, you’re only one of the 37 million Americans who suffer from sinus problems each year. While there is only so much you can do to rid your symptoms, some are more helpful than others. When winter sinus relief is in order, we recommend the following tips:

1. Stay cool
Winter means more heat inside the home, and if you’re spending all your time indoors then we have a bigger problem. That’s because mucus isn’t cleared well in dry, hot, stuffy environments. You’re better off layering on warm sweaters and keeping your heat down a notch. If you’re not waking up with congestion and nosebleeds, you’re home is the right temperature for your sinus health.

2. Humidify the air
Not only does your air need to be cooled down, but it also must be slightly on the humid side. Dust mites and mold love anything greater than 50 percent humidity, so your home should be a happy medium around this time of year - not too dry, nor too humid. The biggest benefit is that using tools like a humidifier will suck the congestion from your nasal passages, easing your inflamed sinuses.

3. Drink (a lot)
Being more water-conscious is always a good thing. This is especially true when your sinuses start acting up. Drink at least a quart a day - the more the better! Salt-water nasal rinses for your nose can help too. You can either make your own mix or buy an OTC solution. Use a bulb syringe to flush out your nasal cavities and clean out mucus and debris.

4. Get rid of irritants
Cigarette smoke, cleaning products, hairspray - you name it - get rid of whatever makes your sinuses feel worse. Anything with a strong odor of fumes can be a problem as can pet dander. While we don’t suggest getting rid of your pet, we do recommend following the steps above and keeping the air in your home fresh by cleaning sheets and upholstery regularly each week.

If your winter sinus infection is only getting worse, consult with an ENT to cure your symptoms faster. We encourage you to give our Sinus & Facial Plastics Institute a call to schedule an appointment. We offer allergy screening, allergy management and immunotherapy. To schedule an appoint, give us a call at (877) EAR-NOSE. For more information about our office, visit www.floridaent.com.