Surviving Seasonal Sinusitis
by Sarah Cimperman, ND • New York City

Spring is here, and so is allergy season. Airborne pollens and spores trigger itchy eyes, runny noses and head congestion in those who suffer from seasonal sinusitis and hay fever. If you’re fed up with being stuffed up, there are things you can do to minimize the effects of seasonal allergies.

Allergies are hypersensitive immune reactions to specific substances, such as inhaled pollens from trees, grasses and weeds. Mast cells are a specialized component of the immune system, concentrated in the mouth, throat, nose and lungs. When these specialized cells are stimulated by allergens like pollen, they release histamine and other reactive chemicals that cause swelling and inflammation. A strong and healthy immune system is an important component of managing allergic sinusitis.

A healthy diet is also important. It can reduce inflammation in the body and lessen allergic symptoms. Niacin, vitamin B3, inhibits the release of histamine from mast cells, but may cause side effects in high doses. Vitamin C can decrease elevated levels of histamine in the blood. Antioxidants, bioflavonoids and essential fatty acids stabilize and strengthen mast cell membranes, inhibiting histamine release and inflammation. They also support the immune system. These nutrients are found in high concentrations in colorful fruits and vegetables.

An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on hypoallergenic foods such as certain fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and cold water fish. It also involves avoidance of foods that increase inflammation, including animal products which contain pro-inflammatory arachadonic acid, hydrogenated oils, trans-fats and foods with high levels of histamine such as shellfish, strawberries, chocolate, sausage and alcohol. Other inflammatory foods include wheat, dairy products, soy, peanuts, citrus fruit, corn and plants in the nightshade family like tomatoes, potatoes and peppers.
For optimal health, drink plenty of pure water and get your daily dose of antioxidants in green and white teas. Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables everyday and stock up on anti-inflammatory foods such as olive oil, avocado, salmon, halibut, sardines, tumeric, cayenne, raw nuts and seeds.

Hydrotherapy is the therapeutic use of water. Techniques specific to sinusitis include steam inhalation, intranasal douche and external applications of alternating hot and cold water. They are used to increase circulation and deliver medicine to sinus and nasal passages. Increased circulation removes waste products and brings nutrients and immune cells to address inflammation. Adding a few drops of Eucalyptus essential oil to steam inhalation clears the sinuses. Intranasal douche, also known as nasal lavage, uses salt water or Hydrastis tea to soothe inflamed sinus passages.

When some plants seem like the enemy, others can help you heal. Some herbal medicines include Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis,) which can be taken as a preventive measure against seasonal allergies as it strengthens the mucus membranes in the sinuses. It also relieves swelling and inflammation in the eyes and nasal passages. Bioflavonoids such as quercitin and hesperidan are well tolerated and safe for long term use in prevention and management of inflammatory symptoms.

Once sinusitis starts, botanical medicines can be used to reduce symptoms and fight infection. Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme found in pineapple, has anti-inflammatory effects when taken away from food. Osha (Ligusticum porteri) relieves congestion. Horseradish* (Armoracia rusticana) thins mucus, preventing build-up of pressure and pain. Oregon Grape* (Mahonia species) soothes inflamed and engorged tissues.

Ask your doctor about appropriate dosages. Seek medical attention for health problems and always consult a licensed practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines before taking any supplements. Tell your health care provider about any medicines that you are taking, whether they are natural or conventional.

The bottom line is that when a healthy diet is combined with natural medicines and hydrotherapy, symptoms of sinusitis often improve. Long-term success is associated with a lifestyle emphasizing prevention of illness rather than management of disease. Talk to your doctor about the options that are right for you, and make this your best allergy season yet.

* These herbs should not be used long term or during pregnancy.

Dr. Sarah Cimperman is a board certified Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine in private practice in Manhattan and Sag Harbor, New York. For more information, call 212-696-7852 or visit www.drsarahcimperman.com.