Introduction
Sinusitis is a painful condition that occurs in susceptible individuals every spring or rainy season. According to medical scientists, the cause of disorder in the upper respiratory tract is the presence of viruses or defects in the body’s immune system. According to yoga science, its underlying cause is the excess of Kapha element in the body.
Sinusitis is a condition of inflammation or burning in the sinus cavities of the cheeks and frontal bones. These cavities are covered with mucous membranes that extend to the nasal passages. During cold, the narrow entrances of the sinuses get blocked.
And one experiences headache and heaviness in the head. There is also swelling on the cheek bones and forehead. Sometimes the pain in the sinuses is so intense that it causes pain in the eyes as well. It takes about a week for all these symptoms to disappear along with the cold, which requires rest and appropriate precautions.
Sinusitis can become a chronic condition and may take about two weeks, a month or even longer to resolve.
In chronic sinusitis, the infection takes deep roots. In this condition, it becomes extremely difficult and painful to control with conventional systems of medicine. Apart from the problems of re-infection, chronic sinusitis becomes a permanent source of other respiratory diseases.
Sinusitis – Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms
Common symptoms of sinusitis include:
♦ Pain or pressure in the face, particularly around the eyes, forehead and cheeks.
♦ Nasal congestion.
♦ Thick nasal discharge, which is often yellow or green in colour.
♦ Cough, especially at night.
♦ Sore throat.
♦ Headache.
♦ Fatigue or feeling generally unwell.
♦ Reduced sense of smell or taste.
♦ Fever in some cases.
These symptoms can vary in severity and duration depending on the cause and type of sinusitis.
Causes
Sinusitis can occur for a number of reasons, including:
Viral infections: such as the common cold or influenza, which can cause the sinuses to become inflamed.
Bacterial infections: certain bacteria can infect the sinuses, causing acute bacterial sinusitis. It can occur after a viral infection or because of other factors such as allergies or a weakened immune system.
Allergies: An allergic reaction to substances such as pollen, dust or pet dander can cause inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to sinusitis.
Nasal polyps: These non-cancerous growths in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses can obstruct airflow and drainage, increasing the risk of sinusitis.
Structural issues: A deviated septum or other structural abnormalities in the nasal passages can interfere with proper drainage and ventilation of the sinuses, increasing the likelihood of developing sinusitis.
Fungal infections: Although less common, fungal infections can occur in the sinuses, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions.
Irritants: Exposure to pollutants, smoke or other environmental irritants can irritate the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to inflammation and sinusitis.
Yogic management of Sinusitis
In yoga, sinusitis is treated in two ways. First, by balancing the energy systems or nadis of the body and second, by affecting the deep mental states and blockages that arise along with the symptoms of the disease.
Meditation, yogic sleep and objective introspection are often helpful in understanding the unconscious mechanisms of these conditions and controlling them.
Generally, yoga postures are contraindicated in febrile conditions, but they can be practiced after the fever and other symptoms of indigestion have subsided.
Sun Salutation-
This is a dynamic yoga practice. It increases the vital force of the body amazingly, neutralizes acute cold and effectively helps in overcoming hypersensitive conditions and many psychological and immune related defects. It is very effective in eliminating obstructive respiratory infections.
Asanas-
In the condition of improving health, it is best to start with the Pawanmuktasana series of asanas. After that, Surya Namaskar and Shavasana should be added. With the increase in strength, Paschimottanasana, Bhujangasana, Halasana, Dhanurasana and Ardha Matsyendrasana can be practiced one to three times according to capacity.
Shirshasana and Sarvangasana are contraindicated in cold symptoms, as they may cause sinusitis or make the existing condition of sinusitis even more complicated.
Pranayama-
Bhastrika Pranayama should be done for five repetitions. Each repetition should have fifty breaths.
Shatkriyas-
Jala-Neti is most beneficial in fever-free conditions. It removes nasal mucus, cleans the sinuses and allows air to enter easily. It can be practiced once or twice daily. Whenever you experience heaviness or mucus accumulation in the nose, you should practice Jala-Neti to get relief from this condition.
Kapalbhati should be performed immediately after Jala-Neti to dry and clean the nasal passages and activate the front part of the brain. It is necessary to expel excess water from the nose. Otherwise, Neti can also have adverse effects, such as cold and cough may start again.
Sutra-Neti is an effective practice to eliminate the sensitivity of the nasal mucous membranes. There may be sneezing and burning sensation in the initial days of practice, but later its benefits will definitely be obtained.
Kunjal Kriya is very useful in both prevention and cure of the disease and it can be practiced daily. Shankhaprakshalan should be done during seasonal changes. This removes the mucous residues rotting in the digestive system and the body heat condition is restored.
Relaxation-
Yoga nidra should be practiced daily, as it provides deep relaxation and has great therapeutic value. Past and earlier childhood experiences give rise to many underlying complexes and thoughts of the personality.
This practice helps the patient of sinusitis to observe them as a witness. Often these complexes and thoughts are the root causes of these diseases.
Diet tips for Sinusitis
Diet should be light and vegetarian, so that mucus does not develop. Do not overeat. It is especially not advisable to consume heavy, oily and sweet food in large quantities. Food items made from salt, rice and refined flour should be avoided.
Consume fruits and raw vegetables in sufficient quantities. It is strongly emphasized that only fruit juices should be taken for the first three-four days of treatment.
Consume grape and sweet lime juice in sufficient quantities. But many types of juices should not be mixed and consumed. After juice diet, include sufficient quantities of vegetables in your diet.
Consume fruits in sufficient quantities, especially papaya. Avoid soft drinks, ice cream, milk and milk products. Consume a few cloves of fresh garlic every day.
Fasting in sinusitis
Whenever the symptoms of the disease start appearing, fast. This is the most effective way to prevent attacks. Alternatively, instead of dinner, drink tea made from ginger, black pepper, cinnamon and cardamom every day. It provides warmth to the body and helps in expelling mucus.
How do you drain your sinuses with yoga?
Draining your sinuses with yoga involves gentle movements and specific poses that encourage drainage and relieve congestion. Poses like Child’s Pose, Bridge Pose, and supported inversions like Legs Up the Wall can help. Additionally, practicing deep breathing exercises and incorporating a neti pot or saline rinse can further aid in sinus drainage during your yoga routine.
Can yoga cure sinusitis?
Yoga may help reduce sinusitis symptoms by promoting relaxation, improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Certain yoga postures, such as forward bends and inversions, can also help eliminate sinus. However, it is important to consult a health care professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of sinusitis. Yoga can be used as a complementary therapy along with conventional medical treatments. Yoga can help reduce sinusitis symptoms in several ways.
Stress can increase sinusitis symptoms. Yoga techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can help reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and potentially reduce sinus discomfort. Specific yoga poses, such as forward bends and inversions (such as downward dog or shoulder stand), can help drain mucus from the sinuses. Regular yoga practice is linked to strengthening the immune system, which can help the body fight infections, including sinusitis.
Important for sinusitis
♦ Keep the body warm during winter and rainy season. Take special care to protect the throat and chest from cold.
♦ As soon as symptoms of sinusitis appear, stop bathing and do not drink excess water.
♦ Applying cold compress or alternately hot and cold paste on the sinuses provides relief.
♦ Steam inhalation at night provides adequate relief.
♦ Smoking should be stopped.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which yoga is best for sinusitis?
Yoga exercises that focus on deep breathing, such as pranayama, may be beneficial for sinusitis. In particular, techniques like Anulom-Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Kapalbhati can help clear sinuses and improve respiratory function.
Can Kapalbhati cure sinusitis?
Kapalbhati, a yogic breathing technique, helps reduce sinusitis symptoms by promoting better airflow and drainage in the sinuses. However, it is important to consult a health care professional for personalized advice and treatment options for sinusitis.
Can Anulom Vilom cure sinusitis?
Anulom-Vilom, also known as alternate nostril breathing, is a yogic breathing technique that is believed to have various health benefits, including stress reduction and improved respiratory function. It may help reduce sinusitis symptoms by promoting better airflow and reducing inflammation.
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