Sinusitis in pregnancy is not serious, but headaches and general discomfort can accompany it. Fortunately, some remedies of natural origin help calm her. Here we detail them.
Some natural remedies can serve as an adjunct to relieve sinusitis in pregnancy. This infection occurs due to inflammation of the lining of the paranasal sinuses, two air-filled spaces that are located between the bones of the head, and whose function is to keep the nose lubricated and protected.
During pregnancy, the appearance of sinusitis is associated with changes in progesterone levels, although they are also the product of possible episodes of the flu and cold. Although they are not a serious problem, their symptoms are uncomfortable and can cause general discomfort. How to improve them?
Table of Contents
Natural remedies for sinusitis in pregnancy
Sinusitis can develop at any time during pregnancy. It is characterized by causing nasal congestion, painful pressure around the cheeks and eyes, sore throat, mucus drainage, fever, among other symptoms. Although it does not usually cause complications, it is uncomfortable and can last for several days.
Fortunately, some natural remedies are suitable to contribute to the relief of sinusitis in pregnancy, at least temporarily. Below we detail some options.
Increase fluid intake
To promote the relief of sinus symptoms, one of the first recommendations is to increase the consumption of healthy liquids, especially water. Through Allina Health, family medicine specialist Jessica Dehler says that drinking enough liquid helps thin mucus.
The intake of water, natural juices, broths, and decaf teas seems to improve discomforts such as throat irritation, headache, and other characteristic symptoms of sinus infection.
Good hydration during pregnancy improves symptoms of sinusitis
Do a nasal wash
The practice of nasal washes is safe during pregnancy. So it can be an option to calm sinus symptoms during this stage. The function of this remedy is to clean pollen, dust, and other residues that accumulate in the nostrils.
It also helps to remove excess mucus and adds natural moisture to infectious episodes. Although the evidence for its efficacy is still limited, a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health comments that it is useful against nasal allergies and sinusitis.
To prepare it, just mix a pinch of salt and baking soda in a cup of water. Then a few drops are inserted into the nasal passages. Finally, you have to blow your nose gently to remove the water and mucus.
Aromatherapy
One of the most popular remedies for sinusitis in pregnancy is aromatherapy. Its application can temporarily calm discomfort such as congestion, headache, and irritation of the mucosa and throat. A study published in the Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine supports these benefits.
According to research, inhaling ravensara oil mixed with frankincense and sandalwood has a calming effect on symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal obstruction. Furthermore, it is believed that these effects are obtained with other oils such as eucalyptus.
To make this remedy, you can add the oil (about 5 or 10 drops) in a container with hot water. Then the steam is inhaled for several minutes. Another option is to put it in an aroma diffuser.
Gargling with salt water
Gargling calms, in particular, the sore throat that results from sinusitis
Gargling is frequently used remedies for sinusitis in pregnancy. They are used, above all, to calm the irritation of the throat that occurs due to the infection. According to an article published in The American Pregnancy Association, the idea is to mix a quarter of a teaspoon of salt for every eight ounces of water.
The resulting liquid is used for gargling, two or three times a day. Also, you can try other remedies such as honey with lemon, which are ideal in case of irritation in the throat.
What other remedies help in the case of sinusitis in pregnancy?
There are some over-the-counter drugs, such as acetaminophen, that can be used for sinusitis in pregnancy. Regardless, it is best to consult your doctor to find out precisely which medications are safe at this stage. Also, it is convenient to implement the following:
- Use a humidifier at night. This is useful for cleaning the nostrils.
- Raise your head with a couple of pillows to facilitate breathing when resting.
- Sleep well. Good quality of sleep is decisive for the immune system.
- Increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables.
Over-the-counter decongestants and herbal remedies should not be used without first talking to your doctor. It is not clear if it is safe to take them during pregnancy. The professional can help resolve doubts in this regard. Also, it is important to check if there is no improvement or if there are signs of complications.