Nose and sinus irritation can affect us for many different reasons. It can be a seasonal problem, an acute infection, or a constant battle. What have you tried for your sinus and ear problems and what has worked the best? Today we’ll cover a few options to these common conditions, though they might not all be common solutions.
Chiropractic Techniques
Gentle massaging (or effleurage) over the sinuses can help promote sinus drainage. Dr. Favero may also perform auricular adjustments (manual adjustments to the ears) to bring relief, reduce pressure, and help open the eustachian tubes. This can sometimes result in immediate drainage into the throat.
There are two other more intensive techniques that may be used at Favero Chiropractic. These procedures will be considered after Dr. Favero’s examination of the affected areas. Endonasal involves manually tractioning at the opening of the eustachian tube in the back of the throat. Nasal Specific is when small balloons are placed in the upper nasal passages and then quickly inflated to help increase the opening to the sinuses and allow for better drainage.
Doctor Prescribed Medication for Infection
This is usually approached in the form of some type of antibiotic. After a few days symptoms might clear up and things return to normal, or it might require further examination to get the right medication for the job.
Over the Counter Drugs
There are OTC solutions that can bring relief such as nasal decongestants or sinus relief medications. Sudafed and similar products can help for temporary conditions, though they might not be the best option if it is recurring or chronic.
More Natural Products
Health food stores have products that address sinus and ear problems, such as herbs to support healthy sinuses and drops for ear infections. Anti-inflammation diets are also popular for addressing health concerns or gut problems.
At Favero Chiropractic we provide products from Standard Process, a great whole food company that has been around since 1929. One of the most effective solutions we’ve found for congested sinuses and runny noses is called Allerplex. See Dr. Favero’s post about it here: What Helped Me With Seasonal Allergies.
Neti Pot
Another more natural option is using a Neti pot to drain or clear the sinus and nasal passages. It is usually a small plastic or ceramic pot that looks like a little tea pot. You want to make sure you use clean water (distilled is best) to avoid contamination during the process. There are many places to find the instructions, such as The Himalayan Institute, but here is a straightforward video that might be helpful —>