5 Ways to Prevent Sinus Infections

Sinus infections are the end result of a disruption in the natural defenses of the human body. They happen when some form of irritant inflames the sinus tissue, allowing bacteria, pollutants or viruses to enter and set up house. Before you know it, you have a headache or pressure behind your eyes, a stuffy head, and maybe even a fever. Whether sinus infections are an occasional bump in your life or a recurring nightmare, once you have had one, you never want another. Below are five ways to prevent sinus infections:

1. Avoid getting sick: One of the key ways to prevent sinus infections is to avoid picking up viruses that cause upper respiratory infections. Upper respiratory infections inflame the sinus membranes and make them vulnerable to sinus infections, either by the virus itself or through a secondary bacterial infection.

Ways to avoid getting sick include:

• Stay away from sick people
• Get vaccinated for seasonal flu
• Wash your hands frequently, especially when out in public
• Use hand sanitizers when soap and water is unavailable

2. Stay hydrated: Mucous membranes, such as the ones that line the nose and sinuses, are our first defense against germs. These mucous membranes need to remain moist to work properly. If they dry out, germs can become lodged in them or continue on to other areas of the respiratory system.

Prevent your sinus mucous membranes from drying out by drinking plenty of water. Aim for at least eight glasses daily and add more as needed, such as when you exercise. Avoid taking over the counter medications that have a drying effect.

Houses can become very dry during the winter, which can further dry out sinus membranes. The ideal for a home is between 25 and 40 percent humidity. If your home falls below this, use a humidifier or leave bowls of water around the house to increase the humidly. Allow the steam from showers or boiling water on the stove to add humidity to your home. Even on cold days, open a window to allow fresh air to replace the dry, stale air trapped inside.

3. Keep your immune system strong: If your immune system is strong, you will be better equipped to fight off sinus infections. Ways to keep your immune system strong include:

• Eat a healthy diet of fresh produce, lean meat, and whole grains
• Add extra portions of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to your diet (the darker the color, the better)
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Reduce your stress levels
• Exercise on a regular bases

4. Watch out for allergens: Many sinus infections start with when allergy reactions inflame the sinus tissue. Avoid the things to which you are allergic, such as cats, dust or mold. Keep your house vacuumed and dusted. Do not spend more time outside than needed on high pollen days or during the fall when mold levels are high.

If you cannot avoid allergens, use an over the counter allergy medication, or ask your doctor about a prescription, to reduce your reaction. Use a plain saline nasal spray to wash any allergens out of your sinuses.

5. Avoid environmental irritants: Chemical irritants can inflame the sinus membranes. Avoid swimming in pools with heavy chlorine fumes and use a nose plug to prevent chlorinated water from entering your nose. Ventilate areas when using cleaning chemicals, especially bleach.

Do not spend time in smoky places. If you do not have a choice, such as when living with a smoker, try to ventilate the areas where you spend most of your time. Open windows and use fans or an air purifier to pull smoke away from you.

Sources:
eMedicineHealth.com - Sinus Infections - Prevention
Northwestern Health Sciences University - Strengthen Your Immune System