I have had quite a few upper (and lower) respiratory infections in the last few months, one of them being acute sinusitis. Here is what helped me get through it:
1. Mucinex (or generic version) is an OTC drug that helps to thin mucous. I stayed away from the Mucinex-D (D is for decongestant, I think) because that "ingredient" gives me the jitters.
2. Humidifier helped me while sleeping.
3. I stood in the shower while the water was as hot as I could stand; the steam helped me breathe. You can recreate this in your bathroom or over hot water in the sink and breathe in the steam.
4. Drink LOTS of water, as increased fluids also helps to thin mucous
5. OTC pain relievers (ibuprofen works best for me)
6. I have heard about this, and people actually use them: sinus irrigation/nasal wash (just uses a saline solution, I think) is available at the pharmacy. Ask your pharmacist or doctor...I think they are supposed to work well and are a great "non-drug" alternative!
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Harriet,
I have had quite a few upper (and lower) respiratory infections in the last few months, one of them being acute sinusitis. Here is what helped me get through it:
1. Mucinex (or generic version) is an OTC drug that helps to thin mucous. I stayed away from the Mucinex-D (D is for decongestant, I think) because that "ingredient" gives me the jitters.
2. Humidifier helped me while sleeping.
3. I stood in the shower while the water was as hot as I could stand; the steam helped me breathe. You can recreate this in your bathroom or over hot water in the sink and breathe in the steam.
4. Drink LOTS of water, as increased fluids also helps to thin mucous
5. OTC pain relievers (ibuprofen works best for me)
6. I have heard about this, and people actually use them: sinus irrigation/nasal wash (just uses a saline solution, I think) is available at the pharmacy. Ask your pharmacist or doctor...I think they are supposed to work well and are a great "non-drug" alternative!
I hope you feel better, soon!
July 13, 2008 - 6:32amThis Comment
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