Sinuses are air-filled spaces behind the bones of the upper face: between the eyes and behind the forehead, nose and cheeks. The lining of the sinuses are made up of cells with tiny hairs on their surfaces called cilia. Other cells in the lining produce mucus. The mucus traps germs and pollutants and the cilia push the mucus out through narrow sinus openings into the nose.

When the sinuses become inflamed or infected, the mucus thickens and clogs the openings to one or more sinuses. Fluid builds up inside the sinuses causing increased pressure. Also bacteria can become trapped, multiply and infect the lining. This is sinusitis. Sinusitis is can be chronic (long-lasting or frequently returning) or acute. Acute sinusitis lasts three weeks or less and the person should have no more than three episodes per year. Acute sinusitis is extremely common. It usually is caused by an upper respiratory viral infection.

Acupuncture can treat all forms of sinusitis: acute, chronic, allergic, or infectious. Acupuncture treats the current congestion while strengthening your immune system to help make you less reactive in the future. Acupuncture treatments can be so effective that you may notice your congestion lessening during your treatment. Acupuncture has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects on the body, which means it helps to reduce the inflammation in the sinus cavities and decrease pain levels. Acupuncture also helps with the movement of fluids in the body, and can assist in the breakdown of congested mucous.

Chinese herbal medicine is an excellent addition to your treatment regimen for sinus congestion and infections. There are many Chinese herbs with anti-bacterial or anti-viral properties, allowing for the treatment of both causes of infection (bacteria or virus).  If needed, an individualized formula will be made for your specific needs. Continue to read Chinese Medicine Treatment for Acute Sinusitis.