SINUS PROBLEMS
The sinuses are air-filled spaces lined with mucous membrane in the bones of the face. Normally mucus is channelled through tiny air ducts from the spaces to the nose, but during colds, the ducts can become congested and the circulation of air and mucus impeded. If mucus builds up in the sinuses and they become inflamed, sinusitis results.

Hay fever can also cause sinusitis, and allergy or exposure to dust and irritants such as tobacco smoke can cause persistent symptoms, or chronic sinusitis.

Symptoms include pain in the forehead and cheeks, which worsens on stooping, lying down or coughing. There may be a green, yellow or bloody discharge from the nose, and the nostril on the affected side is blocked. The patient may suffer headaches and the sense of smell is diminished. If the sinus is infected by bacteria, the bone over it is tender, the skin may be red or swollen and the patient may have a raised temperature.

Treatment
Steam inhalations with essential oils of eucalyptus, pine, lavender, camomile, cinnamon, thyme, peppermint or cypress may be beneficial. You may also take infusions of elderflower, ginger or peppermint.
Garlic is recommended as a general preventive as well as being effective against colds, chill, influenza and bronchial complaints.
Dust makes mucus more viscous, and so ionisers are said to help mucus to drain away.
Reflexology can be helpful.
Decongestant medicines from the chemist open up the air passage and help drain mucus.