3 Reasons Your Sinuses Are Acting Up
By Genevieve Cunningham
Suffering from a stuffy nose is one of the most frustrating feelings. It's a constant feeling of being unable to breathe, smell, or taste. While a day or two of this sensation is something that most of us can manage, when it starts happening day in and day out, we just need relief! But finding relief may be all in finding the cause. If you can nip the cause in the bud, then you can stop the stuffy sinuses in their tracks. If you need help understanding your sinus troubles, take a look at these three reasons why your sinuses are acting up -- plus some tips for feeling better.
Sickness
One of the most obvious reasons why your sinuses might be acting up is because of illness. A cold or the flu or thousands of other viruses may infect the sinus cavities and cause subsequent symptoms. If this is the cause of your troubles, you may need to see a doctor.
The Solution: The Doctor
The best way to deal with sickness is to see a doctor. You may need a prescription medication, or they may be able to direct you to the right over-the-counter option. Either way, a professional's help is the best choice.
Food Sensitivities
Many are surprised to find that certain foods inflame the body -- including the sinus cavities. Common culprits include gluten, dairy, and nut oil. Even if you've never had food sensitivities before, it's possible for your body to change and react differently as you age.
The Solution: A Clean Diet
Though a doctor may be able to help you with this scenario too, your best option may be an elimination diet. Pay attention to what you've been eating before a sinus flare. Then eliminate the suspect for a week to 10 days. If nothing changes, try another food. Once you've found the culprit, you can avoid the food to avoid the problems.
Molds or Allergens
We breathe in all kinds of allergens all day. But sometimes, we get into a particular kind of allergen or mold that really causes us problems breathing. It's something that our bodies really don't like, and therefore, tries to flush out through mucus production. This can be difficult to find and cure, but it's possible if you know where to begin.
The Solution: Clean Your Home
If you suspect that this is a problem for you, start by cleaning your spaces. Start with the home, and don't forget places like window sills, ceiling fans, and baseboards. It can also be a good idea to wash your clothes and any items that have been outside. And of course, don't forget your car. Most of us spend a lot of time in our vehicles, and keeping them clean is crucial for staying healthy.
Getting rid of sinus problems isn't always easy, but it certainly helps to know the cause of your problems. Check for these issues in your life, and eliminate as much as possible. With a healthy lifestyle and attention to detail, you may be able to improve your health and feel your best moving forward.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Nashville, Tenn.