6 simple solutions to treat a sinus infection naturally
“Bummy by dose is blocked” (aka mummy my nose is blocked) is the common refrain we hear when the kids are stuffed up with a sinus infection. And although being called ‘bummy’ – or worse ‘bum’ – isn’t our favourite thing in the world, what’s worse is seeing our little ones in discomfort.
Here are our top six natural ways to help relieve those nasty symptoms:
1. Warm washcloth
A washcloth moistened with warm (not hot!) water and placed on your child’s face is lovely and soothing and helps with mucus drainage. Sorry about the words ‘mucus drainage’.
And now we've just gone and repeated them.
2. Steam
Dry air is horrible on kids with sinus infections. Relieve their discomfort by filling a bowl with hot water or running a hot shower and having them sit close to it. Maybe even read them a story while you’re there?
3. Hydrate
We know it’s obvious, but as it’s one of the most important we can’t leave it off the list – our hands are tied! Make sure your little patient is drinking fluids such as water and fruit juices all day to keep them hydrated and to clear those sinuses.
4. Grapefruit seed extract
As it’s naturally anti-bacterial and anti-viral, many mums swear by grapefruit seed extract to relieve sinusitis. It’s also a natural antiseptic, helping heal those frazzled throats. Just make sure your little one isn’t allergic and you’re good to go!
5. Nasal irrigation
Okay, we think ‘mucus drainage’ has a competitor for the yuckiest phrase ever! Although it sounds gross, nasal irrigation can be a super-effective way to clear those blocked sinuses. A Neti pot is a small device which when filled with salt water helps drain those congested nose passages.
We'll never look at a gravy boat in the same way again.
6. Invest in a humidifier
When the air is dry, mucus won't flow the way it should. This leads those nasal passages to become congested with thick mucus. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, keeping those sinuses free-flowing.
We hope our tips help bring the kids back to their best, especially in time for Santa!