Tips for Sinus Sufferers in Gurnee & Libertyville
Stuffy nose, facial pressure, and post-nasal drip can make every day a struggle. The good news: small, consistent habits can make a big difference. Use these ENT-approved tips to keep mucus moving, reduce flare-ups, and breathe easier. If symptoms linger, we’re here to help with a personalized plan.
Why sinuses clog
Allergies, colds, dry air, or structural blockage can trap mucus and cause pressure or infection.
Common symptoms
Facial pressure, congestion, thick drainage, post-nasal drip, cough, decreased smell.
How we help
Allergy care, medications, imaging, and advanced in-office procedures when needed.
Not sure if it’s allergies, a cold, or sinusitis? We’ll pinpoint the cause and get you relief.
Daily Sinus Care That Helps
Moisturize & Rinse
- Use saline nasal sprays 2–4×/day to thin mucus and relieve dryness
- Consider a saline rinse (neti pot or squeeze bottle) once daily during flare-ups
- Run a humidifier in dry months (target 30–50% humidity; clean weekly)
Reduce Irritants
- Shower before bed to rinse off allergens; change pillowcases weekly
- Avoid smoke, strong fragrances, and airborne irritants
- Manage allergies with doctor-recommended sprays or medications
How to Do a Saline Rinse Safely
- Use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled & cooled water (never straight tap)
- Lean over sink; aim nozzle toward the ear on the same side—not straight up
- Gently squeeze; breathe through your mouth; let solution flow out the other nostril
- Clean and air-dry the device after each use; replace regularly
When to call us: Symptoms >10 days, frequent infections, facial pain/pressure that won’t improve, or reduced smell.
Call 911 for swelling around the eyes, vision changes, severe headache with high fever, or confusion.
Self-Care Tips: Do’s and Don’ts
Do
- Hydrate—water keeps mucus thin
- Sleep with head slightly elevated
- Use nasal steroid sprays as directed for inflammation
- Rinse after dusty yardwork or exposure to allergens
Avoid
- Overusing decongestant sprays (>3 days) — can cause rebound congestion
- Very dry rooms or unclean humidifiers
- For rinses: tap water, if not sterilized as noted above
Still stuffed up despite home care? We can check for allergies, polyps, or a deviated septum.
What to Expect at a Sinus Visit
Our Evaluation
- Head & neck exam; check nasal airflow and drainage
- Possible nasal endoscopy to look for inflammation or polyps
- Allergy review and medication plan
Tests We May Use
- CT scan for chronic or complicated sinus issues
- Allergy testing when triggers are suspected
- Culture if infections are recurrent or not responding
FAQs
Related Topics
Breathe easier, sleep better. Let’s build a simple, effective sinus routine—tailored to you.