What Is A Sinus Infection?

Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, is the inflammation or swelling of the sinus tissue. When our sinuses are healthy they are usually clear and empty, allowing us to inhale from our nose. However, when sinuses become filled with fluid, it promotes the growth of germs such as bacteria, viruses or fungi which end up growing and causing infection. This infection results in the inflammation, swelling and usually blockage of the sinuses which restricts or even completely stops airflow.

There are several different types of sinusitis, each with different amounts of frequency and duration. These include:

Acute sinusitis: Cold-like symptoms, runny, stuffy nose, usually goes away after 2-4 weeks

Subacute sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses that can last 4-8 weeks

Chronic sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses that last more than 8 weeks

Recurrent sinusitis: Several sinus infection attacks a year

Although symptoms of sinusitis are generally more of a nuisance than a serious health problem, they can develop to the point where medical attention may be required. Here are some of the symptoms that typically accompany a sinus infection:

Nasal swelling

Facial pain/pressure

Nasal discharge

Loss of sense of smell

Cough and congestion

Fever

Bad breath

Fatigue

Dental pain

Headaches

People who are at risk for sinus infections include anybody with a common cold, anybody that has nasal polyps or anybody who has immune system deficiencies.

Side Effects of Sinus Medication

Many sinus medications can offer temporary relief from a sinus infection, however they often cause a whole new set of symptoms that the person taking it has to deal with. Aside from being proven not to be safe for children to use, there are many reasons for people of any age to stay away from these medications. Here are some of the symptoms caused by typical sinus medication:

Upset stomach

Nausea

Dizziness

Trouble sleeping

Nervousness

Irregular heartbeat

Allergic reaction

Hallucinations

Mood swings

Ironically, the list of symptoms caused by sinus medications is only slightly shorter (but more unpleasant, in my opinion) than the list of symptoms caused by a sinus infection. I don’t think we need any more of a reason to try and find an alternative solution to sinus infections.

Apple Cider Vinegar For Sinus Infections

Among its other amazing health benefits, apple cider vinegar is also a great home remedy for sinus infections. Many people claim that this property of apple cider vinegar stems from its incredibly nutritious ingredients, which is said to clear sinus cavities and reduce symptoms. These nutrients also help boost the body’s immune system to help fight off the infection that is causing these symptoms.

Overall, apple cider vinegar’s anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and immunity supporting properties make it a great natural remedy to treat a sinus infection. Here is how to apply apple cider vinegar to treat a sinus infection, a method that I learned from Home Remedies for Life.

Mix together half a cup of apple cider vinegar and half a cup of water

Put in a saucepan on high heat until it begins to steam

Turn off the heat and inhale the steam for 3-5 minutes with your eyes and mouth closed, making sure to not burn yourself with the steam

Repeat regularly for most effectiveness

If you do not want to go through the trouble of steaming it, drinking this mixture can also help, however steaming is said to have the most effective and immediate results. Let us know how this article helped you in the comments.

DISCLAIMER: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.

Healthy Holistic Living