This guide will help keep your nose and sinuses healthy and avoid nasal infections that can be irritating and cause unnecessary discomfort.
The sinuses and the nose are the first defense line for your breathing system, as they get easily irritated by unwanted stimuli such as dust particles and germs. Everyone dreads a stuffy nose, which sets in immediately when you lie down to sleep, or a running nose at the office. Fortunately, you can prevent these messy situations by practicing the following health tips.
1. Run a humidifier in your house
The nostrils are lined with thin mucus-producing membranes that moisten, warms, and filter the air you breathe. Staying in a room with little humidity for long periods dehydrates these membranes reducing their effectiveness, and in worst cases, they can crack, leading to nose bleeds.
You can remedy this situation by running a humidifier or vaporizer to increase the humidity. A typical room humidity ranges between 30% to 50% of the atmospheric air, and anything below triggers uncomfortable reactions such as itching nostrils.
2. Treat nasal congestion
Sometimes, your nose’s layout can be prone to blockage due to thinner nostrils. Thanks to modern medical technology, you can now opt for non-invasive nasal treatment. This short medical procedure utilizes low-temperature techniques to reshape the tissues around your nasal canal. Alternatively, you can undergo nasal plastic surgery where portions of your nasal membranes are chopped-off to create more room for the airways.
3. Use a nasal wash
You can use a nasal wash to unblock a stuffy nose, moisten the nostril surfaces or slow a runny nose. If you regularly wash an itchy and runny nose, you reduce the likelihood of developing a nose bleed by moisturizing the nose canal’s mucus membranes. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions reminds NY Mag when using a nasal washer to avoid injuries and contamination.
4. Use a dehumidifier
Like dry air, too much moisture in the atmosphere can cause problems with your sinuses by triggering allergic reactions, asthmatic flare-ups, and nasal congestion. A dehumidifier filters excess moisture from the air and comes as portable dehumidifiers or fixed air conditioning dehumidifiers.
5. Try nasal spray treatment.
If you suffer from post-nasal drip, where you feel mucus running at the back of your throat, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Alternatively, you can use an OTC nasal spray, which thins the mucus from your upper nose canal, allowing it to flow down the nostril. Using decongestant sprays and nasal antihistamines is advisable to treat allergy-related cases. Care should be exercised when using OTC medication as overuse can lead to tolerance, worsening the condition.
6. Manage sinusitis
Sinusitis is a condition where your nasal sinuses get inflamed, according to NHS. This can result from allergens or extreme humidity. Sinusitis can be managed by applying silica gel around your nostrils. Silica traps extra moisture from the air that smoothes dry sinus membranes. Additionally, a wet cloth over your brow can drain the sinuses if they are congested.
Endnote
Nasal infections are irritating and can cause unnecessary discomfort. Fortunately, the condition can be managed through simple home care and medical practices. Follow the above tips to keep your nose and sinuses healthy.