Cold air also causes blood vessels in your nasal passages to constrict, reducing blood flow and making it harder for your sinuses to stay properly hydrated. This constriction can lead to inflammation, which is why many people feel pressure or pain around their nose and forehead throughout the season.
The Relationship Between Cool Air and Your Sinus
This happens because the cooler air dries out the nasal passages and reduces the body's ability to fend off infection-causing bacteria and viruses. As a result, you may find yourself more prone to catching colds or developing sinus infections during colder months.
Alternating between warm and cold (three minutes warm, 30 seconds cold) may also prove helpful for sinus pain relief. Also, steaming with inhalation Vicks VapoRub in hot water breathing and slowly through the nose and out through the mouth can help clear significant sinus pressure symptoms.
One of the more significant ways your air conditioning may aggravate your sinus congestion is through the dramatic temperature change.
Certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree oil, are known for their decongestant properties. Otolaryngologists often suggest inhaling these oils through a diffuser or steam inhalation to alleviate nasal congestion naturally.
It's hard to imagine surviving warmer weather without the cooling power of air conditioning. However, turning on the AC to beat the heat can trigger sinus issues or exacerbate existing problems.
“Inflammation in your sinuses leads to a buildup of fluid that causes puffiness and pressure,” explains massage therapist Vickie Bodner, LMT. “Some targeted massage techniques may help to relieve some of that congestion and promote fluid drainage.”
Drink fluids, such as water or juice.
This will help dilute mucous secretions and promote drainage. Avoid beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol, as they can be dehydrating. Drinking alcohol can also worsen the swelling of the lining of the sinuses and nose.
No. Vicks VapoRub doesn't clear up congestion in the nose. But its strong menthol odor may trick your brain. So you might feel like you're breathing through an unclogged nose.
Sometimes, a cold may cause swelling in the sinuses, hollow spaces in your skull that are connected to each other. The swelling can prevent the flow of mucus. This can lead to a sinus infection. If you have pain around your face and eyes -- and thick yellow or green mucus for more than a week -- see your doctor.
A crisp, cool day with a slight breeze and no dust, molds, pollens, or pollutants is the ideal weather if you suffer from sinusitis. Highly humid days with atmospheric inversions are terrible, because these atmospheric layers can cause pollutants and smog to become trapped and build up.
SI18. This sinus pressure point rests just below where your cheekbones meet your nose on each side of it. They can be pressed on simultaneously to soothe swelling and stimulate drainage.
Upper Ridge of Toes: On your feet, just below the toes, an area corresponding to the sinuses. It's located on the upper ridge of the toes, particularly around the base of the big toe. Applying gentle pressure here with a circular motion can help clear stuffy noses and relieve sinus pain.
Sinus congestion gets worse when you lie down because it's harder for mucus to drain when you're flat on your back. Sleep on your back or side with your head and shoulders elevated to help your sinuses drain. Use a nasal spray or neti pot before bed to help your sinuses drain overnight.
The Role of Indoor Allergens in Nighttime Congestion
Bedrooms are often hotspots for indoor allergens that can worsen congestion and sinus irritation. Dust mites, mold spores, and animal dander are common culprits that lurk in bedding, carpets, and even the air itself.
Drinking plenty of fluids is essential for maintaining overall health, and it can also help relieve sinus congestion. Proper hydration helps thin the mucus in your sinuses, making it easier for them to drain. Opt for warm liquids like herbal teas, clear broths, and warm water with lemon.
Pineapple
Pineapple is a fruit which can help in eliminating mucus. Pineapple juice contains a mixture of enzymes called bromelain.
Camphor oil doesn't pass through the skin, but it can pass through mucous membranes, which are found on the inside of the nostrils. Camphor poisoning is very dangerous, especially for young children. To relieve a stuffy nose, rub Vicks VapoRub on your chest or neck and let the vapors drift upward.