Over the last few days, I’ve been feeling the rumbles of an impending sinus infection. I’ve got the headache, with pain in the forehead and in the cheeks (below my eyes). I’ve started the nasal congestion, though so far my mucus has been clear. And I’ve got a general feeling of blah… my body is kind of achy, I have less energy than usual, and my appetite is funny.
My usual method is to just live with the discomfort until it either goes away or gets bad enough that I go to the doctor. But not this time, sinus infection! I have assembled a team of nasal crime fighters to do battle with the impending infection.
- Sinus Irrigation — the lead fighter on my team of sinus superheroes. The plan is to rinse my sinuses at least once a day with warm salt water. Yes, it is incredibly gross. The sensation is not unlike getting tumbled under the ocean and swallowing a mouthful and noseful of water. But it helps clear out any gunk that may be lurking in the dark recesses of my nose.
- Rest — if my body wants to nap, we’re going to nap. Extra rest will help me fight the infection; wearing myself out will make me more susceptible to it.
- Goldenseal & Echinacea — these two plants are super natural infection fighters. The Dynamic Duo of immune boosters, adding Echinacea and goldenseal supplements to my diet can’t hurt. They don’t interfere with other medications, generally, and are a safe alternative to going for antibiotics before the infection gets too bad.
- Fluids — if there is an infection around here, I’m going to flush it out. Plenty of water and juice should do the trick.
So here I sit, having just irrigated my sinuses on Day One of the Sinus Experiment. I picked up Echinacea and goldenseal at the drug store, and the fridge is full of water, iced tea, and lemonade. If I can successfully chase the infection away without going to the doctor, I’ll be using these crime fighters again for the next sinus invasion.