Sinus Relief

Sinus symptoms arise when mucosal swelling blocks the ostiomeatal complex, trapping secretions and impairing drainage. The overwhelming majority of acute cases are viral and self-limiting within 7-10 days, which is why routine antibiotics do more harm than good. Chronic rhinosinusitis beyond 12 weeks is a different entity involving persistent inflammation, often with nasal polyps, allergy or biofilm, and needs specialist management. Red flags requiring urgent care include visual changes, eye swelling, severe headache with neurological signs, or high fever with rapid deterioration.

1) Irrigate with high-volume isotonic or hypertonic saline daily — the best-evidenced self-care measure, using sterile, distilled or previously boiled water only. 2) Use intranasal corticosteroid spray with correct technique, aiming away from the septum; this is first-line for chronic and allergic rhinosinusitis. 3) Keep indoor humidity at 40-60% and use steam inhalation for comfort. 4) Identify and reduce allergen exposure, which frequently underlies recurrent episodes. 5) Stop smoking and avoid vaping, both of which paralyse cilia. 6) Stay well hydrated to keep secretions mobile. 7) Avoid topical decongestant sprays beyond three days to prevent rebound congestion. 8) Do not seek antibiotics for uncomplicated acute sinusitis under 10 days without worsening.

• •Daily saline irrigation
• •Correct intranasal steroid technique
• •Indoor humidity control
• •Allergen reduction
• •Smoking cessation
• •Hydration
• •Avoiding decongestant overuse