Naturopathic Treatment For Sinus Infection

Homotoxicology Toxicity And Sinus Infections

Natural Remedies for Sinus Infections

Homotoxicology is a theory of disease based upon how the body eliminates toxins. In this model there are several stages to disease progression.

The body is able to excrete toxins. Primary routes of elimination include the liver and kidneys. Other methods of excretion may lead to minor symptoms such as increased sweating or coughs.

Excretion is no longer enough. Inflammation develops as the body attempts to catabolize toxins. Minor infections, including sinusitis happen in this stage.

In this model bacteria are not the true cause of sinus infections. After all, we all have to some extent the bacteria involved in these infections living in our throats and nasal passageways all the time. In homotoxicology it is a toxic environment which allows bacteria to grow out of control. As the bacteria proliferate, inflammation liberates toxins, which is then purged from the body in forms such as mucous and pus.

In this situation there are two possible outcomes from using antibiotics:

Since the toxic environment remains unchanged, sinus infections keep coming back.

The infection does not return. However, the toxic environment remains. Over time toxins penetrate deeper into the body and cause more serious disease.

Band-aid treatments such as antibiotics only give the appearance of improved health. A full intake is essential. Dont treat the sinuses, treat the whole person! Lab tests for toxicity such as hair analysis may be considered.

What Medications Are Used To Treat Sinus Infections

Antibiotics:

First and foremost, if you are suffering from an active bacterial sinus infection you may be treated with antibiotics. Depending on whether you have acute sinusitis or chronic sinusitis will determine your course of therapy.As acute sinusitis may require 10 -14 days of antibiotic therapy chronic sinusitis may need to be treated for up to 30 days with medication.Remember Most cases of sinusitis are caused by viruses such as the common cold and will clear up within 10 or so days. In this case, antibiotics will not be helpful as antibiotics kill bacteria not viruses. Based upon your symptoms, medical history and physical examination your doctor will help determine if antibiotics are necessary.

Pain Medication:

Sinus headaches hurt. Sometimes the pain and pressure can make basic everyday activities impossible to do. So many times those suffering from sinusitis will take an over the counter medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen . Make sure to follow the labeled directions and see your doctor if your symptoms havent improved after a week or if they worsen.

Aerosolized antibiotics, steroids and antifugal treatments:

These may be administered through an aerosol or a nasal rinse. Frequently a compounding pharmacy is required to create this rinse.

Antihistamines:

By Monique Tello, MD, MPH, Contributor

What Is Chronic Sinusitis What Causes It

Chronic sinusitis is defined as inflammation in the sinus area that lasts longer than 12 weeks. The inflammation does not need to be severe to indicate a problem for many, its a constant mild to moderate irritation that gets a little worse or a little better depending on changes in the weather, the persons stress, and their diet. Patients also tend to suffer from worsening congestion when they get a cold, which may lead to an acute sinus infection. Most individuals do not realize that their chronic nasal congestion originates from their gut.

The Mayo Clinic published an article stating that 93% of all cases of CS were mold or fungal related. The researchers studied 210 patients with chronic sinusitis. Using new methods of collecting and testing mucus from the nose, they discovered fungus in 96% of the patients mucus. They identified a total of 40 different kinds of fungi in these patients, with an average of 2.7 kinds per patient.1 The clinic test results echo what I see in practice: chronic sinusitis is a result of yeast in both the sinus cavities and the digestive mucosal membrane. Most individuals have little to no background knowledge of mucosal membranes, so Im going to take a moment to explain the importance of these membranes and outline how they function within the body.

Recommended Reading: How To Stop Sinus Running Nose

Treatments For Sinus Infections Other Than Antibiotics

#1: Saline Nasal Wash

Saline nasal wash can be a great way to thin out the mucous in the sinuses enough to clear out the blockage. I recommend starting this early on in the course of the illness to prevent the infection from worsening.

You can even make this at home using 2 cups of water and a 1/2 teaspoon of salt. I would add a 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of baking soda to prevent burning that can occur with use. There are also plenty of over the counter saline nasal sprays that you can purchase. You can use this 4-6 times per day.

#2: Vaporizer

Vaporizers are great because they can also thin out the mucous and make you feel a lot better. An easy home remedy, steam is probably the best way to use this treatment. Beware if you are an asthmatic as the steam could cause worsening of the asthma symptoms.

#3: Steroid Nasal Spray

Steroid nasal sprays such as Flonase have been my go to remedy recently and the great news is that they are now over the counter. The general recommendation is to use 1-2 sprays per nostril daily.

But I have found great relief using 2 sprays in each nostril twice daily. At these higher doses it is important to remember that you should use this short term, no more than 5-7 days.

These medications can significantly reduce inflammation allowing the congestion blockage to clear and significantly alleviate symptoms.

#4: Decongestants

#5: Guaifenesin

Guaifenesin such as Mucinex can certainly break up the mucous, allowing the congestion to clear more quickly.

Natural Home Remedies Can Be The First Line Of Defense At The Onset Of A Sinus Infection

These natural solutions are real, effective, and often safe for most sinus sufferers. They provide significant sinus infection relief as well as serve an important role in the prevention of chronic sinusitis.

Even when your sinus infections respond to natural home remedies, you may be experiencing issues that need to be addressed by a medical professional. Sinus infections can sometimes be an indicator of more complicated medical issues and chronic or long-lasting infections often have a major impact on your overall health. If you find yourself suffering three or more sinus infections in a single year or have a sinus infection that lasts longer than three months , then you should visit an Ear, Nose, andThroat physician for a diagnostic appointment.

Also Check: What’s Best Medicine For Sinus Pressure

How Phoenix Acupuncture Doctors Provide Sinus Pain Relief

So how do Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture doctors provide sinus relief? Very simply. Acupuncture works with the bodys natural healing processes in order to reduce inflammation, boost immune function, open the sinuses, and stimulate the bodys natural pain relievers. Acupuncture needles are used locally in and around the sinuses to increase blood flow, stimulate immune cells, and open the sinus passages. Other points are used peripherally in the body to balance the body’s energy, stimulate endorphin release, and increase immune function.

All of this is done using the bodies internal energy and can be supported with herbal medicine, vitamins, and other nutrients. These types of treatments have been perfected by naturopathic doctors.

Naturopathic Program For Sinusitis

After an initial history and exam, the most likely acute cause is decided upon and treated. Usually a saline irrigation is taught, but depending on the individual case, an antifungal nasal spray with quercetin added may be used. Quercetin is a natural antihistamine that also has properties of stabilizing some of the immune system cells usually involved in chronic sinusitis. If the case dictates, more interventional treatments of ultraviolet blood irradiation , ozone therapy , may be started upon to give faster improvement.

Recommended Reading: What Medicine Do You Take For Sinus Infection

How To Tell If You Have An Actual Sinus Infection

Even though we often say we have a sinus infection even if its just inflammation or an allergic response, there are symptoms of an actual infection that may be treatable with antibiotics. Nasal congestion and pain under the eyes or around the temples are, of course, main symptoms, but others include the loss of the sense of smell, green nasal discharge, mucus dripping down your throat, cough, fever, fatigue, sore throat, and even bad breath.

Sometimes, a sinus infection will clear up without intervention, but if you develop a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher, have your symptoms for 10 or more days, notice that your symptoms are getting worse and are not improved by OTC medications, or you have multiple infections in a years time, you should seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

Treating Sinus Infections Using Natural Remedies

7-Year Old Sinus Problem Gone in 3 Months | Sinus Treatment at Home

Natural home remedies are a safe and effective solution in the prevention and treatment of sinusitis. These simple and inexpensive solutions offer an alternative to the expense and side effects that often accompany over-the-counter medications. For some sinus sufferers, home remedies may fall short in providing long-term results. For those who suffer frequent or extended sinus infections, it is important to see a medical professional. If left untreated, these sinus infections may impact overall health and could lead to further medical complications in addition to the daily symptoms of sinusitis.

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When To See A Doctor For Sinus Issues

If your symptoms persist more than one to two weeks, you should consult with your physician.

Youll want to check with your doctor even sooner if you have a severe case of a sinus infection including a high fever, swelling around the eyes, and red and inflamed skin, among other symptoms, Del Signore says.

In this case, or if your symptoms do not clear up within two weeks, your doctor will likely prescribe an antibiotic.

The Problem With Antibiotics

Antibiotic resistance, devastation of the microbiome and a lack of long-term benefit in chronic sinus sufferers are a few reasons why antibiotics may not be suitable for chronic sinusitis.

In fact, they may be part of the problem!

Antibiotics can lead to a disruption in your gut bacteria, known as dysbiosis. As well discuss below, dysbiosis and something called biofilms can actually be a driving factor in the generation of chronic tissue inflammation in the mucous membranes. This includes the sinuses!

Theres certainly a time and a place for using antibiotics, especially during acute bacterial sinusitis but just know that this is unlikely to result in long-term resolution or prevention of symptoms.This is because you havent addressed the reasons why that inflammation and mucous persists in the first place!

Finally, its important to understand why youre having chronic sinus issues so you can prevent them from ever happening.

So lets dive in!

Natural Remedies For Sinus Infection

Water Staying hydrated is crucial as it helps in flushing out the virus from the system. We recommend that you drink at least half a gallon of water and more throughout the day.

Ginger Ginger is very good for sinus infection and also for common cold. You can drink ginger tea or even add a teaspoon of honey in order to escalate the recovery process.

Chicken broth with vegetables Bone broth is a traditional remedy that was used in the ancient days to cure cold and sinus infections. This broth helps in soothing the respiratory system and nasal cavities, along with providing the body with vital nutrients.

Vitamin C rich foods In order to speed up sinus infection recovery, you need vitamin C rich foods that help to enhance the immune system.

Nirvana Naturopathy & Retreat

Natural Remedies For Sinus Infections

1. Top Foods & Beverages for Sinus Infections

Water Adequate hydration is the key to flushing out the virus from your system. Try to drink at least 8 ounces every 2 hours.

Chicken broth with vegetables This traditional remedy of bone broth helps soothe the nasal cavities and respiratory system, along with providing important minerals.

Horseradish Anyone who has accidentally eaten too much horseradish has experienced its potent ability to clear nasal passages. Mix some horseradish with lemon to make it even more potent.

Ginger Make a ginger tea and add raw honey to aid in recovery.

Garlic and onions Both of these vegetables help boost immune function.

Vitamin C rich foods Consuming foods high in vitamin C can boost the immune system and speed recovery from sinusitis.

2. Foods & Beverages to Avoid

Sugar Decreases white blood cells that help fight off infection.

Fruit juices Although orange juice contains some vitamin C, it is not as high in vitamin C as whole fruits or vegetables. If you want to drink juice, dilute it.

Dairy products Milk and other dairy products are mucus producing so it is best to avoid them.

Refined flour and grains All refined grains can cause more mucus production.

Salt Without adequate water intake, salt can be dehydrating and slow healing of the inflammation of the sinuses.

3. Oil of Oregano

4. Grapefruit seed extract

5. Vitamin C

6. Garlic

7. Echinacea

8. Neti Pot

9. Add Moisture

10. Essential Oils

Lemna Minor For Sinus Infections Complicated With Nasal Polyp

In some cases, nasal polyps are a contributing factor for sinus infection. A nasal polyp in a nasal cavity blocks the normal drainage of discharge. The collected discharge thus acts as a pool for infection-causing agents, leading to inflammation of sinuses. Here, medicine Lemna Minor is the best medicine to help shrink nasal polyps to prevent sinus infections. It may take some time to shrink the polyps, but once done recurrent sinus infections are prevented.

When and How to take Lemna Minor?

If nasal polyps are obstructing mucus drainage and causing recurrent sinus infections, this medicine can work wonders. It will help in shrinking nasal polyps which are a contributing factor for sinus infections. Lemna Minor acts best when taken in mother tincture form. 5-7 drops of Lemna Minor Q can be taken twice a day by dissolving in half a cup of water.

Sinus Infection: Signs & Symptoms + 10 Natural Remedies

By Annie Price, CHHC

About 35 million Americans suffer from a sinus infection or sinusitis every year. Sinusitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of the tissue lining the sinuses that leads to an infection. It can result in mucus build-up and pain. If youve ever experienced a sinus infection, then you know just how unpleasant it can be much worse than a stuffy nose. While in most cases, a sinus infection will simply leave you running to find a decongestant, in the worst cases, it can lead to surgery to remove an abscess that has developed or the obstruction of the sinuses.

In the United States, sinusitis is the fifth most common medical diagnosis for which antibiotics are prescribed these days. The management of acute and chronic sinusitis is also costing this country over $11 billion every year. That doesnt even include the economic impact of lost work time due to illness.

While antibioticsfor sinus infection are a very common conventional treatment, the majority of sinus infections are actually the result of colds or viruses. They will get better as your nasal congestion improves.

Thankfully, there are a lot of natural ways to treat a sinus infection, including the foods you eat , saline nasal sprays, essential oils and supplements scientifically proven to be an effective sinus infection home remedy.

Neti Pots For Allergies And Sinus Infections

Neti pots are a treatment that originally comes from Ayurvedic medicine. Ayurveda is a style of medicine that has been practiced in India for thousands of years. A neti pot is typically a somewhat shallow pot with a long spout. For use, the pot is filled with sterile salt water. This solution is then poured through each nostril while the individual leans forward. When things work as planned, the water runs in one nostril and drains out the other. In some cases, water can also run down the back of the throat into the mouth, although by adjusting your head you can usually get it to drain properly out of the nose.

Neti pots are one way of performing nasal irrigation. Other approaches include syringe applicators and spray bottles. When recommending neti pots to patients, I often get strange responses. Some people dont like the idea of running water through their sinuses. Others have tried, but struggled to get it to work right. Its also not unusual that people have unrealistic expectations about how they work and what they should expect.

What Can You Do Next

HOME REMEDY FOR CONGESTION – SINUS, NASAL AND CHEST

Investigating these three common causes with your healthcare provider is key to achieving long-term relief of symptoms.

A naturopathic doctor can help you design a personalized approach to help reduce GALT & MALT activation, identify food sensitivities, break up biofilms and improve intestinal barrier function.

While its too late for my six-year old self, thankfully its not too late for yours!

Naturopathic medicine is a wonderful tool to treat chronic ear, nose, and throat problems in the young and the old.

Book an appointment today and lets tackle the rhino in the room!

References:

Problems Using Antibiotics For Sinus Infections

Antibiotics may not be very effective for all sinus infections. In fact as published in the New England Journal of Medicine, antibiotics should be used when symptoms persist for 10 days. Most infections go away on their own after a few weeks. Antibiotics can help some cases, but overall are not even that effective.

Overuse of antibiotics leads to resistant strains of bacteria.

Antibiotics kill off healthy bacteria with each use. Over time, this lowers the diversity of the gut flora and weakens the immune system. Probiotics can help, however they can not replace all the good guys that antibiotics kill off.

Candida and other yeast infections. Killing off bacteria with antibiotics can just give yeast space to move in and cause their own symptoms.

In some cases antibiotics may be useful for very bad sinus infections. However, if antibiotics are the only tool in your toolbox, that leads to over prescription.

As I tell my clients, if the antibiotics really cured the sinus infection, then you would take it once and and infection would not come back.