Written by Chantel – resident Naturopath at Choice pharmacy
Allergy Season
Spring is almost here and that means allergy season is upon us. All the allergy and sinus sufferers out there know how irritating this can be; the watery, itchy eyes, runny nose and constant sneezing.
In this blog, we will be focusing on sinusitis.
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus cavities (the airspaces within the bones of the face) which is caused by infection or allergy. It usually occurs as a complication of cold and flu and is bacterial. As there is extra mucous in the sinus cavities, it allows more for bacteria to grow and then cause infection. Sinus pain can also be triggered by allergies, which can lead to infection. Family history of sinus, lowered immunity, food allergies, inhaling chemicals and irritants (e.g. perfumes, cigarette smoke) are other causes.
Symptoms of sinus include:
- Headache or facial pain and sensitivity, especially around the eyes
- Blocked nose
- Feeling of fullness or congestion in the head
- Thick green/yellow mucous from the nose
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Lessened sense of smell and/or taste
- Cough or a sore throat
What can you do to help with sinus?
Supplements:
- Vitamin C and Zinc: Zinc deficiency can give you more of a predisposition to having allergies. Both of these nutrients are needed to produce immune cells, so they help to boost immunity.
- Quercetin and Bromelain: The combination of these nutrients has been shown to reduce the release of histamine and also help to reduce inflammation.
- Probiotics: Make sure you take a probiotic that contains the Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain. This particular strain has been shown to reduce allergies, boost immune function and repair the lining of the gut wall. When the lining of the gut wall is compromised (which can occur due to poor diet, stress, certain medications, etc.) this can contribute to allergies. If you are having regular problems with allergies, you may need to speak to a naturopath about repairing your gut.
Dietary and Lifestyle changes:
- Reduce sugar in the diet as sugar weakens your immune response.
- Remove dairy from the diet for a period of one month and see how you feel. Having dairy can form excess mucous.
- Increase fruits and vegetables. Especially Vitamin C rich foods; lemons, oranges, strawberries, kiwi capsicum and rockmelon.
- You may have a food allergy which is causing your sinus, so it may be worthwhile speaking to a practitioner about identifying the culprit foods.
- Nasal rinse: can be really beneficial to help reduce inflammation and clear away some of the mucous. You can buy these from your local pharmacy.
- Clean and dust regularly and change bedding, to minimise your exposure to dust mites.
- Avoid damp or mould, especially in the home.
For more information on sinus, please book in for a free consultation with our naturopath.
You can book our naturopath for in-store consultation online or e-mail to naturopath@choicepharmacy.com.au to organise a zoom consultation.