A zoomed in view of a green tea bag floating in a cup of tea.

foods that HELP SINUSES

Antioxidants and omega-3s can prevent trouble; spicy foods clear passageways.

BELL PEPPERS Also high in vitamin C, which works with the immune system

AVOCADOS Also high in omega-3 fatty acids

GREEN VEGETABLES Counteract histamine, which contributes to runny nose and sneezing

FISH Inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids in salmon, cod and mackerel

GARLIC Thought to thin mucus and improve mucus flow

GINGER Regulates immune response linked to allergic asthma

ONION Antihistamine properties; fresh onion can help open and drain sinuses

CURCUMIN Active ingredient in turmeric may lessen secretion of mucus

CITRUS FRUITS High levels of vitamin C, an antioxidant that can prevent colds

CAYENNE PEPPER Capsaicin may thin mucus and open sinus airways

7

WAYS TO RELIEVE SINUSES

DRINK GREEN TEA to relieve headache caused by constant sneezing and blowing your nose. Green tea extract may clear mucus from the nose.

1

INHALE STEAM from a humidifier, hot bath or shower to lessen congestion. Or place a towel over your head and bend over a pan or cup of hot water, then inhale.

2

RINSE SINUSES with a nasal wash, using a bulb syringe or neti pot and a sterile saline solution, to moisten sinus membranes and help clear excess mucus.

3

DRINK WATER throughout the day to thin mucus. Dehydration leads to headache and aggravation of sinus symptoms. Keep a glass or bottle of water nearby as a reminder.

4

RUN A HUMIDIFER in the bedroom to counteract the damaging effects of dry indoor air and to prevent nasal passages from drying out.

5

PROP UP YOUR HEAD while sleeping, either with pillows or with a wedge, to prevent mucus from pooling inside the sinus cavities overnight.

6

BLOW YOUR NOSE GENTLY one nostril at a time. Avoid forceful blowing, which irritates nasal passages and can push bacteria-filled mucus back into sinus cavities.

7

SINUS MEDS

Get relief with over-the-counter drugs at Hy-Vee:

Alka Seltzer Plus PowerMax Sinus pressure reliever, fever reducer, cough suppressant

TopCare Sinus Relief Day & Night Nondrowsy relief by day, pain & congestion relief all night

Afrin No Drip 12-hour relief from painful sinus pressure, nasal swelling and congestion

The information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Consult with a medical professional for any questions.

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