Sinusitis Infection Symptoms
DIETARY AND OTHER APPROACHES
Although nutrition does not play a direct role in sinusitis, some dietary measures may help. In one study, patients with chronic sinusitis reported improvement after eliminating milk products from their diets. People trying this approach should ask their doctor about supplements or increase their consumption of non- dairy calcium. Fluids can help dilute secretions and promote drainage. Drink at least 8 to 10 cups daily of water, juice, tea, and even soup. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables for vitamin C. Citrus fruits (rather than just the juice), grapes, and blackberries are useful because they also contain bioflavonoids, plant pigments that have anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin E, too, has anti-inflammatory benefits. Dietary zinc is also an important immune booster and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Zinc-rich foods include seafood, meat, poultry, milk, yogurt, beans, nuts, and whole grains. Some foods are natural decongestants. These include garlic, onions, chilies, and horseradish. Decongestant herbs and spices include ginger, thyme, cumin, cloves, and cinnamon. you smoke, make every effort to stop. Smoking causes nasal and sinus inflammation, as can secondhand smoke. Heat and dry air can produce swollen, dry nasal membranes that are predisposed to sinusitis; a humidifier may be a simple solution. For fast relief, cover the face with hot, wet towels to promote drainage and increase blood flow to the area. Steam inhalation also promotes drainage. Hot tea may help reduce congestion; it contains theophylline, a compound believed to ease breathing by relaxing the smooth muscles in the walls of the airways.
