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Practical Solutions for Sinus Conditions
Are you one of the 40 million Americans who suffers from sinus allergies or infections? It's getting to be that time of year again, and every year the number of people who suffer with sinus problems increases. Approximately 17 percent of the U.S. population is affected by pollens, dander, mold and the like. Common symptoms range from a stuffy or runny nose to postnasal drip, accompanied by painful pressure in the facial area and fatigue.
I myself suffered for years with allergies and sinus infections until I discovered a variety of methods for relieving the discomfort of chronic sinusitis and sinus infections. In my practice I have treated countless patients with similar conditions. All of the methods I use myself and recommend to others are drug free, inexpensive and easy to use. If you or someone you know is affected by seasonal sinus allergies, read on.
First, let me offer a brief overview of how our sinuses work and where the problem lies. One simple analogy is to think of the air filter on your car. We know that this needs to be replaced periodically, because when it gets plugged up it prevents the engine from "breathing" properly, which in turn causes the car to run poorly. Our sinuses are our body's air filter: when they get plugged up we can't breathe properly, and the blockage affects our performance. The moral of the story? Our bodies need maintenance, too. Be sure to treat your body at least as well as you treat your car.
Part of the problem with allergies is that our bodies treat the allergens (dust, pollens, dander, etc.) as if they were pathogens (bacteria, viruses, etc.). The immune system overreacts and releases histamines to seal off the invaders. Histamines cause fluid to be drawn into the affected membranes, which results in swelling and pressure in the sinuses. Taking antihistamines (Benadryl, etc.) blocks the histamine response but doesn't address the original immune imbalance.
As this congestion continues more allergens accumulate, prompting the body to secrete more mucous in an attempt to flush them out, which can cause a runny nose and postnasal drip. Untreated, this can lead to a sore throat, bronchitis or lung infections. Conversely, when our mucous secretions become thicker they can eventually block the sinus passages they are meant to protect. When this condition becomes chronic, bacteria are likely to grow. This type of sinus infection is often accompanied by a headache and yellow or green mucous. At this point a doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics, which all too often become several courses of stronger and stronger antibiotics. The repeated use of antibiotics is detrimental to the friendly intestinal bacteria we need for healthy digestion and can further compromise the immune system. Isn't it preferable to prevent, and when necessary, to treat sinus problems as safely as possible? My 14 years of experience have proven it is indeed possible for a motivated patient to do just that.
When we look at the physiology of the sinuses we can see why antibiotics alone have such a hard time clearing the infection and why acupuncture, Chinese herbs and some very simple techniques often work as well or better. One problem is that congested sinus cavities don't get adequate blood flow, which in turn makes it very difficult for the antibiotics circulating in the bloodstream to reach the infection. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs work by promoting circulation and opening up the congested passageways. Acupuncture also has a regulatory effect on the immune system that calms the hyperactive reaction to allergens and stimulates an appropriate response to pathogens.
Along with acupuncture and herbs I recommend a rinsing technique to all of my sinus patients that is highly effective for gently cleansing the sinus passages. I also recommend a natural antimicrobial spray that clears pathogens when there is an infection present. Finally, various salves can be used to coat the membranes of the nostrils, soothing them and reducing the number of allergens entering the sinuses in the first place. By combining these time-tested natural therapies it is possible to keep allergies under control and reduce or eliminate the chronic use of antibiotics.
If you would like to learn more about these safe, gentle and effective techniques for yourself, I invite you to call for a consultation and/or treatment. I also periodically offer classes to the public. For more information, please call (415) 370–3839.
© 2002 Larry Forsberg. All rights reserved.
Articles posted on this Web site are for personal use only and remain the property of Larry Forsberg, L.Ac.
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