Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Steam Cures For A Sinus Headache







Sinus headaches are headaches caused by various problems within the sinus cavities. These problems can stem from a number of culprits, including viruses like flu and cold, allergies and bacterial infections. The resulting symptoms are pain and pressure in the front part of the head and in the face. These symptoms often are worsened by sudden changes in temperature and movement. Try steam cures in order to lessen the severity of a sinus headache. Steam can help to loosen mucus and congestion, which in turn can help with pain and pressure.


Showers


Go into the bathroom and close the door so that you will retain as much steam in the bathroom as possible. You can either get into the shower and turn it on as warm as possible, or you can turn the shower on and just sit in the bathroom without actually getting wet. Slowly breathe in the warm, steamy air. Try to stay in the bathroom or shower for at least 15 minutes. You might want to do this up to 3 or 4 times a day, depending on the severity of your symptoms.


Vaporizors


Steam vaporizers heat up water and release steam into the air. Most vaporizers also have a compartment in which you can add liquid medications. These medications are mixtures of oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus and lavender. When the steam begins to rise, the oils mix in and help to open sinus passages.


Boiling Water Tent


Boil a pot of water on the stove. Remove the pot and place it on a table or on the floor. Make a tent by placing a towel over your head. Then lean over the pot and hold the towel out over your head and the pot to trap the steam that is rising. You also can add your own peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender or wintergreen oils to the water in the pot. Use caution, however, since the steam rising will be very hot at first. You may want to let the water cool for a minute or two before inhaling the steam.

Tags: eucalyptus lavender, over your, over your head, pain pressure, peppermint eucalyptus, peppermint eucalyptus lavender, towel over