Imagine having to deal with sinus congestion on a daily basis. Constantly blowing your nose, experiencing post nasal drip resulting in a cough, watery eyes and sinus headaches can be a frustrating condition. Chronic sinusitis is a common condition that is experienced by many, the cause can vary from allergies to the common cold to even pregnancy related sinusitis. There are many treatment options to help manage the symptoms ranging from the daily use of the neti pot (uses salt and water solution to flush out the nasal passages), decongestants, nasal sprays and antihistamines. The general cause for this constant runny nose is inflammation of the nasal passages; acupuncture can act as a natural decongestant, helping decrease nasal inflammation along with allowing better drainage of the sinus canals.
Chronic sinusitis due to colds and flu
As the winter months creep up, so does the frequency of the common cold and flu. One of the most common symptom tends to be sinus congestion, which in most cases will resolve on its own with a little TLC. But in some cases the infection can cause lingering nasal congestion caused by increased mucus production along with thicker mucus blocking the sinus passages. Acupuncture targets each of the sinuses and helps to drain mucus from the nose. The increased blood circulation helps to decrease mucus viscosity and allow for better breathing.
Chronic sinusitis due to pregnancy
The body undergoes a large shift during pregnancy, ranging from increased blood volume, a complete hormonal overhaul as well as a decrease in overall immunity. Pregnancy induced sinusitis is a common concern that many women begin to experience during the first trimester of pregnancy and continues throughout the entirety of the pregnancy. This results from the inflammation of the membranes in the nose from higher levels of estrogen. Acupuncture is a safe treatment throughout pregnancy and can help manage the inflammation in the mucus membranes of the nose, while improving mucus circulation throughout the sinus passages.
Chronic sinusitis due to deviated septum
A deviated septum is when the cartilage/bone within the nose that separates the two nostrils is not centered. This can result in difficulties in breathing as well as chronic sinusitis. The deviated septum inhibits the flow of mucus and can cause blockage within the sinuses. Although there is little that acupuncture can do to correct the deviation, (only surgical intervention can correct this) acupuncture can again manage the proper flow of mucus, acting as a natural decongestant.
A constant runny nose is an annoyance and in some cases debilitating resulting in facial pain, cough or difficulties in breathing. The cause to sinusitis can vary vastly along with the many options available over the counter to address it. In my opinion the two most effective forms of treatment to ensure proper sinus flow are the use of the neti pot along with acupuncture. Two treatments worth trying.
Source: Inside Toronto: Tao of Wellness
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