Sick Again

Another two weeks, another sinus cold bordering on infection. Why me? Is it the little monster's friends making me sick all the time? Or is it the cold, wet summer that is again convincing me that we live in Seattle without the scenery?

No matter what the answers are, the fact remains that I am effing sick. Poor Noah was stuck watching TV for hours today and limited to interaction with me on the couch. I was surprised how good he was all day despite the lack of physical activity.

From my past years of chronic sinus infections, I have the routine down. Please copy for your future use. I am experienced. It takes a couple days, but this WILL MAKE YOU WELL. Eventually.

LISA'S SINUS REMEDIES:

1. Irrigate your sinuses with warm water and salt. Yes, I mean up your nose. Remember to tilt your head back so it goes up into your sinus cavities. 1/2 tsp salt to 1 cup of water is good. Do not use iodized salt. The iodine will irritate your mucous membranes. Over the counter saline spray also works, but hurts like a SOB. Using a bulb syringe is perfect for this, although you could also buy a neti pot. Do 3 times a day.
   
2. Steam with essential oils of eucalyptis, tea tree and lavendar. 3-4 drops of each in a soup bowl of hot water. Don't use the eucalyptis at night, and be careful using it with Sudafed, as they are both stimulants. Do up to 6 or 7 times a day, at the very least twice.
   
3. Massage your shoulders, neck and eyebrows. Tension causes constriction which will keep your sinuses from draining. Work the sides and front of your neck. Even better - get a professional massage.
   
4. Use moist heat on your head, neck and shoulders. Warming up a damp handtowel in the microwave works very well.
5. Over the counter Sudafed and prescription Flonase both kick ass.
6. Traditional Medicinal Tea - Breathe Easy, Echinachea and Throat Coat.
   

I hope this helps anyone who is looking for sinus relief tips. Time for me to go and take some of my own sage advice.