March Madness of the Mucous Membranes
Having lived in Denver for almost 40 years I’m well aware of the extreme dryness of the air in the Mile-High City. There are some who have even referred to this city as the “nose-picking capital of the world.” However, during the winter months it isn’t just Denver that suffers from dry air. By the month of March, almost everyone north of the southernmost states has had the heat turned on in their homes and has been breathing relatively dry air for nearly six months”…creating ideal conditions for sinus infections.”
I’ve noticed for the past several years there seems to be a trend with sinus suffering reaching a peak by March. There are more requests for help on the website: sinussurvival.com, and my practice is busier. What’s happening is that the degree of inflammation of the mucous membrane is worse than it’s been all winter. Most of us spend nearly all of our time indoors (or in heated cars) in the winter, which can wreak havoc with an already inflamed mucous membrane.
This is the time of year when we can most appreciate the benefits of moisture for our nose and sinuses. A warm mist humidifier in the bedroom and in your office (if it’s an enclosed space) can make quite a difference. Remember to keep the temperature in the room between 65 and 68 degrees. The higher the temperature the drier the air, but if you go much below 65, then the colder temperature is also irritating to the mucous membrane.
Perhaps the most effective way to keep the membranes moist throughout the day is to use the Sinus Survival Spray every couple of hours. In addition to saline, it contains three anti-inflammatory herbs: aloe vera, calendula, and yarrow leaf, that help to soothe the membranes and reduce inflammation. I also suggest swabbing the outside of your nostrils with a very small amount of peppermint oil immediately following the spray. The Sinus Survival Eucalyptus Oil is also highly anti-inflammatory and can be inhaled by spraying it on a tissue, or by spraying it into a Steam Inhaler (any brand) along with a drop or two of peppermint oil (any brand is OK). Following the steamer (for 15 to 20 minutes, 3x/day), I’d suggest irrigation with the SinuPulse. Although this is the most effective way to irrigate, if you have another irrigating device, then use it. Don’t forget to drink lots of water (at least ½ ounce per pound of body weight). If you follow these recommendations on a daily basis, you’ll go a long way towards preventing March madness of the mucous membrane.
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