Sinusitis

Sinusitis is the inflammatory condition of the mucous membrane lining the sinuses - the bone cavities leading from the nose. It usually follows a common cold, flu or other infections. Infecting germs sometimes enter the sinuses or chambers on either side of the nasal passage, causing sinus problems.

Causes

The sinuses generally contain nothing but air, but if there is a great deal of catarrh in the nose, the holes connecting the sinuses to it can get blocked and filled with mucous, which may then become infected. This is called 'sinusitis'.

Some people are more prone to sinusitis, than others. This is because they tend to get a lot of catarrh due to nasal allergy or it may be that the holes draining the sinuses are smaller than usual and so more liable to get blocked. Chronic rhinitis or a cold may bring on sinusitis.

Sings & Symptoms

Excessive or constant sneezing, a running nose, blockage of one or both nostrils, headaches and pressure around the head, eyes and face are experienced. The face is very tender to touch, but not usually swollen.

Herbal Medicines

1. Garlic: The fresh juice of 3 to 4 garlic cloves, with 2 teaspoonfuls of honey, should be taken twice a day. It is a proven antibacterial, and analgesic.
2. Onion: Fresh juice of onion, well mixed in honey is also of great help in sinusitis.
3. Black pepper: 5gms of black pepper should be powdered finely, and this, well mixed in a cup of warm milk, if taken regularly, prevents recurrent attacks. It is a good anti-infective.
4. Steam inhalation is very good for sinusitis.

Ayurvedic Remedies

1. Maha Laxmi Vilas Ras (SIRO) : 1 tablet twice a day with Triphala quatha is a good remedy for this painful condition.
2. Chitraka Hareetaki available in lehya form is a proven remedy. 2 teaspoons of this medicine should be mixed in a glass of warm milk, and taken twice a day.
3. Nasal inhalation of steam for 5 minutes gives good relief. A few drops of Jeevandhara (a mixture of camphor, menthol, ,etc.) should be added to the hot water, after which the steam should be inhaled twice a day.
4. Septilin (Himalaya Drugs) tablet 1 to 2 tablets twice daily for 4 to 6 weeks.
5. Laxmi Vilas Ras (Nardia) 1 tab, thrice daily for the same period.
6. Shad Bindu Taila can be used for inhalation 1 to 2 drops twice a day.

Do's & Don'ts

Diet: Fried, refrigerated and starchy foods should be avoided. The patient should also avoid use of perfumes, scented oils etc.