Title: Expert Advice on Managing Seasonal Sinus Congestion and Nasal Health
In an interview with a leading news outlet, Dr. Mohammad Ali Zareiyan, a specialist in traditional medicine and an assistant professor at Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences in Yazd, has provided detailed guidance on managing sinus congestion and related conditions, offering insights rooted in medical expertise.
Understanding the Condition: Cold vs. Warm Catarrh
Dr. Zareiyan explained that the flow of secretions, a common symptom, is categorized based on its origin and nature. When secretions flow from the head towards the nose, it is termed “Zakam” (a common cold), and when they flow towards the throat, it is “Nazleh.” He further distinguished between two types:
- Warm Catarrh: Characterized by thin secretions, accompanied by a burning sensation and itching in the nose, eyes, and mouth, as well as a feeling of warmth in the sinus area.
- Cold Catarrh: Involves thick secretions, significant voice changes, a tingling sensation on the tongue while eating, and a feeling of heaviness in the head and sinuses.
Practical Tips for Relief and Management
The specialist outlined several key strategies for alleviating discomfort and preventing complications:
- Sleeping Position: To reduce the accumulation and thickening of phlegm in the back of the throat, avoid sleeping on your back. Instead, position your head on the pillow so that secretions can drain from the nose rather than into the throat. Failure to clear this phlegm can lead to further thickening, bad breath, and potential infection.
- Nasal Hygiene: If secretions accumulate, using a saline nasal wash 2 to 4 times a day is highly recommended to help clear the passages. Blowing the nose should be done gently to avoid forcing purulent secretions into the ear canals, especially in children.
- Steam and Inhalation: A lukewarm shower and inhaling steam can be very beneficial for those experiencing secretions with itching and burning. Using a humidifier to breathe moist air can also relieve nasal congestion and sore throat. Inhaling steam with chamomile and marjoram may help shorten the duration of the illness and reduce symptoms.
- Dietary Considerations: To prevent headaches and shorten the cold’s duration, it is better to avoid medications that completely stop secretions while drainage is ongoing. Furthermore, consuming watery fruits like watermelon and melon may increase symptoms in susceptible individuals due to their allergenic compounds.
- Managing Sneezing: At the onset of symptoms, frequent sneezing can worsen inflammation and congestion in the respiratory tract. Dr. Zareiyan suggests preventing sneezing by using a mixture of violet and almond oil.
- The Role of Rest and Activity: While excessive sleep, especially during the day, after meals, or after bathing, can be counterproductive at the beginning of a cold (unless secretions are thin and minimal), rest becomes crucial for recovery once symptoms subside. For those prone to frequent colds, regular physical activity during healthy periods is advised, as it improves blood circulation and promotes sweating, which can reduce the severity and frequency of illnesses.
This comprehensive advice provides a holistic approach to managing common sinus and nasal issues, emphasizing practical and accessible remedies for the public.