? about sinus infection - Sinus Problems Message Board

tnstudent · 05-01-2004, 02:58 PM

This past week Ive had sinus congestion. Other than sudafed is there anything else I can take??

Marie55 · 05-01-2004, 07:01 PM

Irrigate sinuses using saline/baking soda solution. Boil 1 cup water, add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, mix well, strain thru paper coffee filter, pour into clean nasal spray bottle, allow to COMPLETELY COOL. Lie on bed on back with head hanging of, squirt solution into nostrils (about 3 squirts each nostril), massage cheeks, turn head slowly from side to side, remain there for minute or two, say letter "kkkkkk" while getting up to keep solution from going down throat. Let nose drip and then blow. Do this morning and night. This cleans out the junk collected in sinuses and help to heal. My doctors have approved this. My husband use to take instructions to co-workers, those who had sinus infections and meds did not clear up and the saline solution irrigation bailed them out.

Marie55 · 05-01-2004, 07:03 PM

Irrigate sinuses using saline/baking soda solution. Boil 1 cup water, add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, mix well, strain thru paper coffee filter, pour into clean nasal spray bottle, allow to COMPLETELY COOL. Lie on bed on back with head hanging of, squirt solution into nostrils (about 3 squirts each nostril), massage cheeks, turn head slowly from side to side, remain there for minute or two, say letter "kkkkkk" while getting up to keep solution from going down throat. Let nose drip and then blow. Do this morning and night. This cleans out the junk collected in sinuses and helps to heal. My doctors have approved this. My husband use to take instructions to co-workers, those who had sinus infections and meds did not clear up and the saline solution irrigation bailed them out.

david23m · 05-02-2004, 03:15 AM

I use cool tapwater. I was wondering is it bad not to boil regular sink water?

Super123 · 05-02-2004, 10:15 AM

Hi David,

You can also use pulsatile irrigation, which can force out more gunk. Guafenesin can help thin mucus, making it easier to drain, but in my experience it doesn't help appreciably. Drink lots and lots of water. Do NOT take antihistamines such as Benadryl because that will thicken and concentrate mucus.

I have had sinus infections every 3-5 months for the past 3 years, and in fact am on a course of Augmentin now. (I do feel great right now.) I have surgery scheduled for 6/15.

Hope this helps.