The maxillary sinus or the cavity around the nasal passage tends to get swollen and inflamed. This hinders drainage and causes the mucus to accumulate.
The area around the eyes and face gets swollen, you may have throbbing facial pain or headache and breathing becomes difficult.
By and large, sinusitis is triggered by the common cold.
What Causes Maxillary Sinusitis?
The mucous membranes of the maxillary sinuses, nose and throat become inflamed. Swelling blocks the opening of the sinus and does not allow the mucus to drain normally, causing facial pain and headache.
Obstructed sinuses generate a humid environment which makes it easier for infection to take hold. Sinuses that get infected and cannot drain become filled with pus, leading to thick, yellow or green discharge.
Common causes include:
- Viral infection
- Bacterial infection
- Fungal infection
- Nasal polyps or tumors
- Allergies such as hay fever
- Deviated nasal septum
- Tooth infection
The maxillary sinuses are situated under the eyes, at the cheekbones. The commonly seen symptoms are pain in the cheekbones, swelling of the face and sensation of pressure. The sinuses normally contain air and when they get inflamed, the increased pressure in the sinus cavity triggers pain. Inflammation can make breathing difficult too.
Natural Home Remedies For Maxillary Sinusitis
More often than not, you can effectively manage sinusitis with simple home remedies and natural treatments. The key in the treatment plan is to ward off a tendency to chronicity.
- Clove: Clove is an effective expectorant. It helps clear up nasal passages and sinuses quickly and manage the annoying symptoms of cough and headache successfully. Take 1 teaspoon of clove powder with 1 tablespoon of honey at least 5 times a day.
- Ginger: Ginger is one of the most effectual and frequently used home remedies for sinusitis. The herb is loaded with gingerols which are powerful anti-inflammatory agents which fight inflammation and swelling and also ward of infections. Have ginger tea twice daily or powdered ginger root with honey 5 times a day.
- Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus essential oil is wonderful to tackle the symptoms of sinusitis. Eucalyptus clears up the nasal passage and the sinuses and makes breathing easy. It also effectively battles infections and allays inflammation speedily. Add 2 to 3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a big bowl of steaming water. Cover your head with a towel and take in the emanating vapors. This home remedy affords instant and effective relief. Another way to use the essential oil is through massage. Blend 5 drops of eucalyptus oil with 10 drops of carrier oil such as almond oil or olive oil and gently massage the chest, back, throat and nose. This treatment is of particular use in toddlers and children.
- Carom seeds: Carom seeds are beneficial in a lot of ways when it comes to management of sinusitis. Add about 4 to 5 spoons of carom seeds to a bowl of steaming water and inhale.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is packed with curcumin, a potent anti-infection agent which staves off infection and prevents chronicity. Have a glass of hot milk to which a spoon of powdered turmeric is added.