I have long had problems with my sinuses. When compounded with a cold or an allergy flare-up, it can be real misery.
One of the best treatments is a simple nasal lavage: put a little salt and baking soda in a cup of warm water, then snort it up. I know it sounds repulsive, but it works great. No medicine I've ever taken works as well.
I usually keep a small film can of salt and baking soda in the bathroom, and I take it with me when I travel. Today I realized if airport security ever stopped me and asked me what that suspicious white powder in the film can is, I could reply, "Oh, that. That's just for my nose."
Re:Nasal lavages
dws on 2005-01-05T06:10:47
It's not too hard to get used to, though sinuses filling up with fluid isn't exactly normal. I've been doing it for a year and a half, and my sinus and allergy problems have mostly gone away. Use a non-iodized salt if you try it.
Re:Nasal lavages
VSarkiss on 2005-01-05T15:50:11
It does take some getting used to, but it's not the drowning feeling that's bad, it's seeing what comes out of your nose.
Erm, I don't think I want to write about this anymore.
Just goes to show that humans, like all vertebrate land animals, originate from the sea, as salty water is thought of as better than just clean water.
Re:For babies too
VSarkiss on 2005-01-05T15:47:15
Careful, it's baking soda, not baking powder. Baking soda is simple sodium bicarbonate: it makes the water slightly alkali, which is easier on the mucous membranes. Baking powder OTOH has other ingredients, which are probably not good for your sinuses....except maybe for the baking powderYou're right, you can buy the stuff bottled also (brand names like "Ocean"). But I like the warm water, and as much as I use it, homemade is much cheaper.
