to nasal spray. And, nope, it wasn't the saline kind. That one didn't do a thing for me. I moved on though--to Claritin-D. Finally I realized I was really doing damage to myself. Then when I was 24 I met someone who was further into health than I was at the time. He gave me some pointers on various topics including my headaches. It was then I was introduced to the neti pot. If you do not use one of these, I highly recommend it. I would suggest the ceramic ones, as opposed to the plastic ones, because I believe they're supposed to hold less bacteria. You can find the plastic ones at Walgreens or CVS (or your other local drugstore) or the ceramic ones at Chamberlins (or your other local healthfood store). You need to buy some salt too. I also add a small capful of white vinegar to each mixture because another friend of mine, who had a sinus operation, told me his doctor suggested the addition of vinegar to enhance the cleansing process.I'm just getting over a sinus infection and, let me tell you, the neti pot made me feel SO great this morning. You should've seen what came out of my nose.
Anyway, after you do it, you should hang your head upside down for a bit then slowly bring it back up, and blow your nose. Otherwise you might notice water randomly pouring from your nostrils.
Another solution for those with sinus problems is a massage cane. You can order one on the Internet for about $25. Some come with a DVD and/or booklet demonstrating the proper use. This also helps for stiff necks and sore muscles of course. I keep mine next to my bed. Love it!Additionally, I find exercise helps headaches. When I am in a non-exercise phase I immediately notice more pressure.
Speaking of exercise, guess who started jogging again this week. Me! I usually breathe in through my nose and out through my mouth but I'm trying a new challenge by doing yoga breathing the entire time instead. It's a bit more difficult at first but I can see that it will really help me in the long-run. Last summer when I was jogging regularly I was able to jog for 50 minutes straight but now I'm back to just 20 before I have to alternate with walking. But I'm just trying to remember that everyone starts somewhere and I need to stay positive about the whole thing. The fact I'm even doing is a step in the right direction. It sure beats hanging out at smokey bars all evening and listening to people complain.
Next time your friends invite you to a bar try taking a random exercise class or going for a walk/jog instead. Friends are great and bars can be fun but if it becomes habitual you might eventually get lost in the sea of stagnancy that seems to go hand-in-hand with that lifestyle. I much prefer being in a room full of people with drive and motivation. As for yoga, or any type of exercise class I've ever taken, I also must say that it's so nice to have the teachers' encouragement. It really makes you feel good!
neti pots are awesome. i've always had bad sinus problems and that always led to me getting a bad cough...sometimes for weeks at a time. a friend suggested i try one of these and i can't believe i've gone so long without one. I use it about 3 times a week because i work in a dusty warehouse and ride my motorcycle everyday, so i get a lot of debris in my nose. i've yet to have any more sinus problems though and its been about 2 months.
ReplyDeleteyes, they are wonderful!! i too wondered how i ever managed to live without one for so many years. it really makes a world of difference. :-)
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