With fall officially in full swing, many people are heading to the drug store to solve their sinus problems.
However, for those who do not want to take conventional drugs, there are natural remedies that many health professionals suggest work just as well.
Doctors see over 32 million cases of chronic sinusitis each year according to the Mayo Clinic Womens HealthSource, but they say trying things like steam and saltwater solutions can be both inexpensive and effective to alleviate symptoms.
Mayo suggests flushing the nose with saltwater twice a day or spraying the nose with a saltwater solution can ease congestion often associated with sinusitis. The group also suggests draping a towel over your head as you breathe in steam or just taking a hot shower.
Placing warm compresses around the sinus area can also ease the pain from sinusitis.
It is also important to keep hydrated so doctors at the clinic suggest drinking plenty of fluids, but avoiding smoking and alcohol which can worsen swelling of the nose and sinus lining.
According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, sinusitis occurs when the sinuses become infected or inflamed. Because of problems associated with sinusitis, Americans spend over $5.8 billion in healthcare costs.