how to drain sinuses how to drain sinuses

How To Drain Sinuses? – 7 Effective Ways

In today’s world, the majority of the population suffers from one or the other type of health problem, be it physical or mental. Maintaining good health doesn’t only mean being physically fit; it also comprises mental, emotional, and social health.

The process involves adopting healthy lifestyle choices, a balanced diet, regular exercising, stress management, and adequate sleep.

It is a continuous mechanism that requires self-care, strict measures, and medical attention whenever necessary. To learn how to drain sinuses effectively, let’s get to know the disease.

how to drain sinuses
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1. What is Sinusitis?

Also known as Rhinosinusitis, Sinusitis or Sinus infection is recognized by sinus cavities’ swelling and inflammation. The sinuses are the air-filled spaces behind the forehead, cheeks, and eyes.

They are responsible for producing mucus, which moisturizes the nasal passage and filters out the impurities from the air inhaled. The blockage of the sinuses can lead to the development of uncomfortable symptoms.

Factors that cause sinusitis can be either bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, allergies, a structural peculiarity in the nasal passage, or a weak immune system. Nasal congestion, facial pain, headache, cough, and thick nasal discharge are common symptoms of sinus infections.

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection, which differs from individual to individual. Mild signs go away with rest, hydration, and pain relievers. However, in the case of a chronic infection, evaluation by an ENT specialist may be required to address the causes or structural issues. Corticosteroid1 helps with relieving nasal congestion.

To prevent the infection, it is advisable to maintain good nasal hygiene, such as avoiding allergens, using nasal rinses, staying hydrated, and washing hands regularly. Managing allergies and proper treatment of respiratory infections helps reduce the signs of the sinus.

To summarize, sinus is a common infection involving the inflammation and blockage of the sinus cavities. The average number of cases of sinus per year in India is around 10 million. Preventive measures help reduce the symptoms and frequency of infections, allowing people to breathe comfortably and maintain overall well-being.

2. Signs and Symptoms

signs and symptoms
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The symptoms of the sinus2 are a result of inflammation and blockage of the sinus cavities. Sinus can present various symptoms that differ in severity and duration. Here are some common symptoms:

Pain in the face is one of the significant signs of a sinus infection. It is usually felt around the forehead, eyes, and cheeks. The ache may get worse while bending or lying down.

Sinus commonly leads to a blocked nose, making it difficult to breathe. This is caused by inflammation of the sinus tissues and an increase in mucus production. Many sinus-affected people experience headaches, especially around the affected areas. The pain can be constant or throbbing.

Thick and discolored nasal discharge is another characteristic symptom of a sinus infection. The discharge can either drain from the nose or the throat. Sinusitis also leads to a decreased ability to smell, resulting in difficulty in detecting and differentiating scents.

Sinus can also cause fatigue and feeling unwell at all times. The reason is the body’s weakened immune system and the effort required to fight the infection. Sometimes, excess mucus dripping down the throat leads to coughing.

3. What Causes Sinusitis?

causes
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Any factor which leads to swelling and blockage of the sinus cavities may lead to sinus infection. However, its causes vary from person to person, and sometimes multiple factors can lead to sinusitis. To properly treat and prevent, one must acknowledge the underlying problem. Here are some common causes of sinus:

The majority of sinus cases are caused by viral infections, such as influenza or the common cold. These cause congestion and swelling in the nostrils, leading to blockages.

Sinus can also be a result of bacterial infection, as bacteria can enter the cavities through nasal passages and grow, causing problems. This is more common in chronic sinusitis3.

Cases of sinus due to fungal infections are relatively rare but might occur in people with specific risk factors or harmed immune systems.

Allergens, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander, can trigger sinusitis. The body’s immune response to Allergens causes swelling in the nasal passages, resulting in signs of sinusitis.4

Additionally, certain structural differences in the nasal passages or sinus cavities can also lead to sinusitis, such as narrow sinus openings, nasal polyps, and a deviated septum. These can cause hindrance in ventilation, leading to frequent sinusitis.

Cigarette smoke, air pollution, chemicals, or strong scents can also irritate the nostrils and sinuses, leading to swelling and inflammation. Also, people with diseases, such as autoimmune disorders, and weakened immune systems due to undergoing chemotherapy or HIV, are more likely to develop sinusitis.

4. Diagnosis and Treatment

diagnosis and treatment
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The diagnosis of sinusitis comprises an assessment of one’s medical history, physical evaluation, and sometimes laboratory tests.

The medical professional inquires about one’s signs, duration, and any related history that might contribute to sinus. A physical examination includes palpation of the face and sinuses to check for swelling and assessing nasal passages to look for congestion or discharge.

Additionally, in some cases, a nasal endoscopy may be needed to visually examine the sinuses and look for any unusual signs of swelling.  Certain cases also require X-rays or CT scans to offer a more detailed view of the sinuses and identify structural damages or complexities.

The treatment procedure for sinusitis includes symptom management, such as the usage of pain relievers like ibuprofen can help relieve facial pain and headaches, nasal sprays can reduce sinus congestion.

Nasal irrigation can help drain mucus, allergens, and irritants from the nostrils to relieve congestion. In the case of bacterial sinusitis, antibiotics help eliminate the disease.

Corticosteroids help reduce swelling of nasal passages and are prescribed for acute and prolonged sinusitis. Allergy management methods, such as consuming antihistamines, undergoing allergy immunotherapy, or avoiding allergens, are recommended.

In the case of chronic sinusitis, the involvement of surgical methods, such as endoscopic sinus surgery to eliminate structural complications is considered.

5. How to Drain Sinuses?

how to drain sinus
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Sinus drainage is an important aspect of managing sinusitis and relieving congestion.

Various techniques have been devised to help drain sinuses, such as using a saline solution to drain out mucus, allergens, and irritants from the nostrils, steam inhalation to moisten the mucus, promoting drainage, warm presses on the face to relieve facial pain and pressure, nasal sprays to moisturize the nasal passages, and proper hydration to keep the mucus thin. Here are some remedies to help drain sinuses.

5.1. Saline Nasal Rinse

saline water
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Also termed nasal irrigation, saline nasal rinses involve using a saline solution to flush out the sinuses and nasal passages. This method helps relieve congestion, promote sinus drainage, and reduce the mucus lining.

To perform a saline nasal rinse, prepare the saline solution by mixing non-iodized salt with lukewarm distilled water. Various devices for nasal rinsing are available, such as neti pots, squeeze bottles, or nasal irrigation devices.

Tilt the head to the side and lean over a sink, permitting the solution to flow into one nostril and out of another and breathe through the mouth.

As the solution enters the nasal passage, it helps flush out the mucus and discharge. It is essential to rinse and clean the device with sterilized water after every use and let it air dry.

5.2. Neti Pot With Essential Oils

essential oils
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Using neti pots with essential oils is an alternative approach to saline nasal rinses. The benefits of nasal irrigation5 can be enhanced by the addition of essential oils, and by offering additional relief.

To use a neti pot, prepare the saline solution as in saline nasal rinsing.  Add a few drops of essential oils, which are popular for their soothing and decongestant characteristics. Choices include peppermint, tea tree, or lavender oil.

Fill the pot with the saline solution mixed with the essential oils, lean over a sink, tilt your head to the side, insert the pot’s spout into one nostril, and slowly pour the solution into the other nostril. The solution should flow out the other nostril.

As the solution enters the passage, it drains out the mucus and discharges. After use, rinse and clean the pot with sterilized water and let it dry. Choosing essential oils based on one’s previous allergies or sensitivity to a particular oil is also important.

5.3. Steam Inhalation

steam inhalation
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It is a very simple and effective home remedy that can help loosen mucus, soothe congestion and relieve pressure. To perform steam inhalation, here’s how:

Boil some water and add a few drops of essential oils like tea tree or peppermint for additional benefits, but remember to follow the recommended dosage.

Position the head about 12 inches above the bowl of hot water, ensuring a comfortable distance to avoid burning. Using a towel, create a tent over the head, trapping the steam inside it.

Keeping the eyes closed, breathe deeply through the nose, and follow the process for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the steam to enter the nostrils and sinuses.

After completion of inhalation, blow the nose to flush out the mucus and clean the passage. People prone to nasal bleeding and having respiratory conditions are advised to consult a medical professional before performing this remedy.

5.4. Warm Compress

A warm compress can offer temporary relief and relaxation, but if the symptoms last longer or become more adverse, it is always advisable to consult a doctor to identify the underlying cause and recommend proper management.

It is a soothing and simple home remedy that helps reduce pain and swelling and promotes drainage. To apply a warm compress, here’s how:

Soak a clean towel in warm water. Ensure that the water is comfortably warm and not too hot to cause burns. Squeeze out the excess water, making it damp.

Apply the towel on the affected areas where pain and pressure are felt. These areas are usually around the cheeks, the bridge of the nose, or the forehead. Allow the cloth to sit for about 10-15 minutes. The process can be repeated as per requirement. After the compress, gently massage the affected areas in a circular motion. This helps soothe the pain and drain the discharges.

5.5. Hydration

hydration
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Hydration is important during sinusitis as it helps loosen the mucus, keeps the nostrils moist, and promotes effective drainage. Here’s why hydration is important during sinus:

Drinking sufficient amounts of fluids helps keep the mucus thin and less sticky. It allows easy flow and assists in clearing mucus from the sinuses.

Dry nostrils or passages can lead to discomfort and irritation. Staying hydrated keeps the passages moist, reducing dryness and elevating comfort.

It also supports overall immune function, which is vital for protecting the body from multiple diseases and helping it heal naturally.

To stay hydrated during sinusitis, one must aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, as it is the best choice. Fluids that are rich in electrolytes like potassium and sodium are also important to maintain balance. Coconut water is a good option to maintain the hydration balance.

Caffeinated beverages and alcohol consumption promote dehydration and thus should be avoided. Adding a humidifier can also help moisture the air, preventing dryness in the passages.

5.6. Facial Massage

Facial massage is a helpful method to relieve sinus congestion, reduce pressure and elevate sinus drainage. Here’s how to perform facial massage during sinusitis:

Thoroughly wash your hands to ensure cleanliness, use your fingertips, and carefully apply pressure to the areas around the sinuses, including the cheeks, forehead, and nose bridge. The motion should be circular and light upward strokes.

It is important to focus on acupressure points, such as between the eyebrows, the temples, and the side of the nostrils. Delicately massage the jaw joint and just down the ears to promote relaxation.

Focus on particular areas of congestion and continue the process for a few minutes. Avoid too much force or discomfort. If the signs worsen, discontinue the massage and consult a doctor for appropriate management.

5.7. Other Remedies

herbal tea
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Besides these remedies, one can also try sipping warm fluids, such as herbal teas, and warm water with lemon or chicken soup. It soothes the passages, elevating drainage. Incorporating spicy foods into one’s diet, like chili peppers, can open up the nostrils as these foods contain capsaicin.

One can also try to prop up their head with extra pillows while sleeping to prevent the mucus from mixing. A vaporizer or humidifier can add moisture to the air to keep the nostrils clean and ease congestion.

  1. Barnes, P. J. “Corticosteroid effects on cell signalling.” European Respiratory Journal 27.2 (2006): 413-426. ↩︎
  2. Hirsch, Annemarie G., et al. “Nasal and sinus symptoms and chronic rhinosinusitis in a population‐based sample.” Allergy 72.2 (2017): 274-281. ↩︎
  3. Hamilos, Daniel L. “Chronic sinusitis.” Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 106.2 (2000): 213-227. ↩︎
  4. Van Duijn, N. P., H. J. Brouwer, and H. Lamberts. “Use of symptoms and signs to diagnose maxillary sinusitis in general practice: comparison with ultrasonography.” BMJ: British Medical Journal 305.6855 (1992): 684. ↩︎
  5. Tomooka, Lance T., Claire Murphy, and Terence M. Davidson. “Clinical study and literature review of nasal irrigation.” The Laryngoscope 110.7 (2000): 1189-1193. ↩︎

Last Updated on by Sathi Chakraborty, MSc Biology

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Sathi Chakraborty, MSc Biology

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