Sinus infections are the result of a weakened immune system, the common cold or sinus disease. One of the most common symptoms of a sinus infection is severe congestion and sinus pressure. When the sinus cavity is finally opened either by medication or natural remedies, the mucus buildup will drain out of the nose and down the back of the throat (post-nasal drip). There are effective methods to drain a sinus infection.
Instructions
Drain a Sinus Infection
1. Use over-the-counter medications to drain your sinuses from an infection. Take an oral decongestant to reduce the swelling of the sinus cavity, allowing the mucus to drain. The swollen sinus cavity will prevent mucus from draining properly, which most likely led to the infection. Take an oral expectorant to thin the mucus buildup, making it easier for it to flow out of the sinuses after they have been opened. These medications can be taken together and can be found combined in one pill.
2. Use natural remedies such as peppermint tea, eucalyptus oil and spicy food to open up the sinuses. Purchase 100 percent peppermint tea from the grocery or health food store. Brew it at double-strength, using two tea bags, to intensify the flavor. Sweeten to taste and drink slowly, allowing the warmth, humidity and peppermint to sooth and relax the sinus cavity. Place two or three drops of eucalyptus oil just below the front of the neck three or four times day. The aroma from the oil will help drain the sinuses. Eat spicy foods to cause the sinuses to drain as well.
3. Purchase a neti pot from a pharmacy. Mix the saline solution included in the neti pot kit with warm water (warm water is an important aspect of using a neti pot). Fill the neti pot with the solution and follow the instructions by pouring the solution into one of the nostrils while tilting the head so the liquid goes throughout the entire sinus cavity, draining it of any excess mucus. Repeat on the other nostril and clean with soap and water when done. Use the neti pot two or three times a day.
Tags: sinus cavity, Drain Sinus, Drain Sinus Infection, infection Take, infection Take oral, mucus buildup, natural remedies