As winter ramps up and Auckland brings out its most changeable weather patterns, naturally, you may become more aware of your sinuses and any potential symptoms. With both pollen and humidity in the air, perhaps your body’s nasal system might be congested as well. Of course, you might even have the constant urge to blow your nose. On top of this, headaches could also be frequent. From symptom to symptom, there are some options for relief. Whether that be prescription options, over-the-counter methods, home remedies and, of course, seeking help from specialists. With insight into your sinuses, your head, nasal and mouth areas can perform their tasks more efficiently, so you can get on with your day.
What are our sinuses?
Sinuses can be divided into these cavities:
- Forehead (Frontal Sinuses) is found between the forehead and the eyes
- Cheeks (Maxillary Sinuses) located behind the cheekbones. The biggest surface area of all sinuses.
- Between the Eyes (Ethmoid Sinuses), between the nose and eyes
- Deep in the skull ( Sphenoid Sinuses), found behind the eyes
These four cavities, located on your face, are air-filled areas that help facilitate key modes inside your body. A foundational function is their ability to help humidify the air you breathe. Indoor humidity levels between 30–50% are generally ideal for your sinuses to function properly. However, if there is significantly higher humidity, issues can arise in air control. On the other hand, low humidity can cause dryness and open up the door for potential infection risks. It’s best to be aware of any conditions that might impact your health.
It’s worth knowing that sinuses produce mucus to assist with trapping bacteria and dust. When blocked or inflamed, sinus issues can occur here. Let’s consider some common sinus problems that you might experience and tackle how they can be soothed.
Short-Term Sinus Infection
As the most common occurrence of sinusitis, its cause often springs from a viral infection, even something as common as the cold. Expect nasal congestion, some headaches, especially coming from the area between the eyes. When the sickness settles in, you may even have a reduced sense of smell. Don’t worry, though – this specific type of sinus problem will last between 10-14 days, and in most cases can be treated with rest, lots of water and restoration. Of course, this too can progress to a more severe version of sinusitis as we unpack later.
With Auckland’s fierce weather patterns, there’s no doubt that Winter’s arrival might disrupt your body’s usual health and vitality levels. High humidity can cause inflammation in the nasal area, which could bring about bacterial growth. If you have a home with lowered ventilation, mould and dust mites can also negatively impact your sinuses. Pollen, too, spreads more easily on those windy and dry Auckland days. Be aware of conditions within your changing environment and how they might interact with your body. To find out more information and for peace of mind, sinus treatments in Auckland can help guide you through your journey, with tests, medication options and support.
Chronic Sinusitis
If you have endured sinusitis symptoms for more than 12 weeks, there may be a few issues at play requiring your attention. Ongoing inflammation and symptoms, maybe even something structural in your nasal cavity, can all impact facial pressure, constant congestion, and even some fatigue. This health issue can significantly impact morale; it’s so important to be on top of this when you notice these symptoms surface. Chronic sinusitis might also test your ability to get to sleep, with pressure and inflammation keeping you up. If this is the case, seeking a sleep clinic could be helpful for you to gain some relief and ease symptoms. Auckland Sleep Clinic is a top sleep clinic in New Zealand, ready to offer our expertise.
Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis)
If you have been sneezing far more than a regular cold would permit, maybe you even have a running nose, constantly, then hayfever may be at play. Pollen, dust mites and pet dander can all negatively impact your health- but if you don’t know, then it’s important to factor in that experiencing these can exacerbate hayfever symptoms. Take stock of your environment and health, and remember to pack products that soothe symptoms.
When symptoms persist: a recurring issue.
If you have had at least 4 significant sinus-related issues this year, you may have a recurrent sinus infection. You might even have an untreated allergy, but perhaps a weakened immune system might also be the main reason for the ailment. In which case, it’s recommended to seek advice from a specialist. Sinus relief remedies can help, but if symptoms persist, consider seeking help from the experts. Sinus treatment in Auckland (Auckland Sleep) can help you navigate your cold/flu health.
Soothe sinus problems with help from
Avoiding exposure to allergens:
- It’s a quick, pro trick to close your windows at home when it’s a windy Auckland day. Even on pollen-heavy days–best to minimise exposure.
- Try your best to change clothes after you’ve been exposed to the outdoors
- Reach for your dehumidifier to lower indoor moisture.
- No mowing of lawns when it’s super windy or pollen-heavy
Medication
If your sinuses have only just started causing you strife or you’re not used to their negative impacts, it’s best to know what type of sinus problem you have. Do this before you take anything over the counter or try a new medication. But once you know what you have, you can reach for one of these to assist with symptoms.
- Saline Spray/rinse: Get rid of or diminish irritants. These work by flushing out the nasal passage.
- Corticosteroid Sprays: These types of sprays reduce inflammation
- Antihistamines: Most likely the product you are familiar with, these help relieve allergy symptoms.
- Decongestants: Blocked nose? Fret not, a decongestant will help relieve blockages, at least short-term.
Changing your lifestyle
- Water is your closest ally. H2O will help you so much to thin and break down any mucus found in your nose. Water is perhaps one of the best natural sinus relief remedies. Invest in a water bottle and keep drinking, to give your body natural defence.
- Bedding should be washed regularly to prevent allergens from accumulating.
Need extra help? Auckland Sleep can assist If you have tried these sinus relief remedies and are still seeking extra help. If falling asleep is becoming next to impossible with sinus symptoms persisting, it may be time to bring in the experts. It’s so frustrating trying to get some shut-eye when your nose is blocked, or your headache is burning – Auckland Sleep can assist with advice to diagnose your health. Through proven techniques, Auckland Sleep can help provide key medical treatment to get you on the road to healthier sleep. Our practice tackles everything from blocked noses, sinusitis, sleep apnoea, right through to snoring. Auckland Sleep can help you get the support you need for a better night’s rest.
