Headache Updates

Sinus allergy is a nasal problem. It happens when  microscopic particles such as pollen and ragweed  accumulate in the nose. This provides a fertile breeding ground for different types of infection.

Many such particles are present in the air that we breathe. The mucous membrane in our nose regularly keeps the flow of such particles under check by filtering them. However, if there is a regular onslaught of such particles then the mucous membrane is blocked and the particles accumulate, harden and eventually block the nose. If left untreated it can lead to serious infection. Hay fever, which is a serious medical problem, begins from such an infection.

The symptoms of sinus allergies are very common. Therefore, they we tend to either mistake them for an ordinary cold or neglect them altogether. A running nose with a constant itching sensation and continuous sneezing are some of the symptoms of sinus allergies. Sinus allergies occur mostly during the spring, early fall or in late summer season. All these are transient periods during which the air is dry. During these periods, most of us tend to have a running nose and sneeze more than usual. Therefore, it is difficult to identify sinus allergy at this early stage.

Medication for this problem should not be taken before it has been confirmed by a thorough diagnosis. Therefore, a visit to a specialist is recommended if the symptoms have persisted over a period. However, sinus allergies can be treated through basic nasal irrigation. The technique has been practiced for centuries in traditions of yoga. In such tradition, it is called Jal Neti. The technique has become popular in recent times as patients who had been suffering from sinus allergies for the last 50 years have miraculously gained relief by practicing it daily.

In severe cases, these allergen or particles that cause allergies might cause not only infection but also lead to formation of tumors at the opening of the sinus. This usually leads to occasional bleeding as the swollen tissue might be injured by scratching. This aggravates the chances of infection and fungus growth in the nasal cavity.

To prevent sinus allergy, avoid exposure to dry or polluted environments and tobacco smoke.  Frequent  air travelers should consider reducing their air-travel. Frequent air travel increases the possibility of contracting sinus allergies. Swimming should be avoided, as the chlorine treated pool water may not be suitable for the nasal passages. If you do decided to swim then avoid diving as the water gushes into nasal passage at enormous speed and might injure the mucous membrane.

Sinus allergy can be treated through some easy methods. Basic nasal irrigation is one of the most effective methods. Inhaling vapors of menthol mixed in hot water can decongest the nasal passage as well as suppress the infection. Once the infection is cured, regular irrigation from the mucous membrane will ensure that all inhaled particles are flushed out of the body. It is advisable to begin the treatment for sinus allergies at the earliest possible.