Sinusitis

Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinuses, can cause symptoms such as headache, fatigue, excess mucus, bad breath and is often coupled with an itchy or sore throat, blocked nasal passages or blocked ears. It is important to address nasal congestion as any obstruction of mucus drainage tends to be an invitation for bacterial pathogens which encourages the growth of infection.  Some factors which may cause sinusitis include allergy, hayfever and viral or bacterial infections (colds).

It is important to support the immune system to reduce the overproduction of mucus. Nutrients such as Vitamin C & Zinc (e.g. Ethical Nutrient’s Zinc Fix Powder) support immune function if there is infection or persistent colds; herbs such as Echinacea, Andrographis and Elderflower/ Olive Leaf are also immune supportive. If there is a tendency to allergies or hayfever herbs such as Albizzia, Baical skullcap & Perilla will reduce the over-activity of the immune system. Vitamin C and Quercetin (found in onions!) are natural anti-histamines so they are perfect for reducing allergic reactions.

Some other considerations:

1. Fenugreek & Horseradish – can be used in tea and tablet form. Nature’s Sunshine Fenugreek is great to clear sinus congestion quickly.
2. Netti Pots & sea salt water: a time-honored remedy renowned for its ability to irrigate the sinus & prevent infection.
3. Check for food intolerances such as dairy or gluten. The Food Detective Test is a useful, accurate test which is quick & easy to do. Many sufferers find a huge improvement once offending foods are removed.
4. Identify allergens. Consider dust mites, cat hair or pollens as potential triggers. Ensuring there is good ventilation & avoiding excessive dust build up can assist.
5. Avoid mucus forming foods such as dairy, bananas & oats.
6. Enzymes: digestive enzymes taken on an empty stomach between meals assists to clear mucus buildup.
7. Sleep with the head elevated to encourage drainage.
8. Nasal inhalers/ sprays which are contain eucalyptus (brand?) will assist to clear the sinus.
9. Probiotics: many people who suffer with chronic sinusitis have a history of frequent antibiotics. This tends to compromise levels of favourable bacteria in the bowel which are essential for immune function. Probiotics aid the immune system to ‘re-educate’ & may decrease allergies.
10. Tissue salts such as Schuessler’s Combination Q taken at regular intervals during a flare up can reduce sinus build up.

Research Updates - June 2011

Porter et al (2011), ‘Seeking common pathophysiology in asthma, atopy and sinusitis’,
Trends in Immunology, Volume 32, Issue 2, pp: 43-49.

Research is now identifying fungal infection as a common contributor to allergic respiratory conditions such as asthma and sinusitis. If these conditions are actually not inappropriate allergic inflammation, but really inflammation directed against undiagnosed fungal infections, then this could radically change the way they are diagnosed and treated.

Vive Health Naturopaths recommend the following products for Sinusitis:

NOTE: Consideration should always be given to individual requirements. Please consider seeing a qualified practitioner before commencing a new treatment protocol or when combining supplements with pharmaceutical medication.

For more information on Sinusitis or to ask a Qualified Naturopath a question  Click Here.