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From: ijk@houxt.UUCP (I.KINAL)
Newsgroups: net.med
Subject: Sinus Problems and Cures
Message-ID: <373@houxt.UUCP>
Date: Wed, 21-Mar-84 09:20:05 EST
Article-I.D.: houxt.373
Posted: Wed Mar 21 09:20:05 1984
Date-Received: Thu, 22-Mar-84 01:31:09 EST
Lines: 72

As a long-time sinus sufferer myself, I thought I would offer my experiences.
I've undergone two operations - the first corrected a slightly deviated septum,
enlarged the openings for improved drainage, and removed some polyps
(non-cancerous growths).  In the second, they went up between my gums and
lip and scrapped out infected tissue.  
	It's hard for me to recommend either for/against surgery for
anyone.  These operations did help somewhat, the pain afterwards wasn't
too bad, but surgery should always be approached carefully (Statistically,
a small number of people DIE even from the most simple operations.  And
lately, there have been news articles about doctors with faked credentials,
etc.  It makes you wonder.)  Also, I have yet to undergo the final step, where
they cut openings in the roof of your mouth and allow the sinuses to drain
more freely (I doubt I ever will).  Even after these two operations I still
have considerable problems, although lately things seem to have gotten
better.  I recommend that all the alternatives be tried before surgery
is considered.  Here's what I found to be useful over the years.

1. BECONASE - a prescription spray with hydro-cortisone.  Not like
conventional decongestants, but it does seem to help.  In general,
avoid normal sprays; if impossible to go cold-turkey, then taperr off
by using children's/infant's strength sprays.

2. VITAMIN C - mixed results.  Best seems if you take your doses spaced
over the day, or in timed-release form.  I take 1000-2000 mgrams a day
(of course, that's quite a lot. Some studies have claimed possible
kidney stones, and even impairment with blood cell production.  I
would gradually increase the dosage - in you get diarrhea, you're
taking too much.  Also, once you increase, you supposedly develop
a greater need, and must taper off if you decide to decrease your
intake.

3. STEAM INHALATION - various cosmetic/ health places sell these
things, usually as facial saunas.  When things get bad, the steam
usually helps, especially with some medicated inhalants.  When
my sinuses act up, a half-hour really helps (usually while watching
the evening news).  The heat may also weaken the germs in your
respiratory tract.

4. HEATED SINUS MASKS - when things get really bad, I sleep with
one.  It helps to improve the drainage, and allows me to get to sleep.
May also have preventative value, if you can put up with it every night,
and your mate doesn't object to sleeping with 'the creature from....'
These are obtainable from surgical supply drugstores and some mail - order
firms.  (I use a portable ground-fault interrupter for added protection
against electrical malfunctions).

5. RADIANT ELECTRIC HEATERS - when things get really rough, I alternate
with item 3.  The heat really loosens up the junk.  Use as much as you can
stand, and goggles to prevent cooking the eyes.

6. HATS - if the temperature is below 60, I've noticed a hat is essential,
or at least a head band.  Below 40, a heavier hat is used.  Below about 20,
I even use a face mask to cover my lower sinuses.  You may look silly,
but it's a small price t pay!!!

7. GLASSES - depending upon the type used, I found that glasses tended
to radiate the heat away from my face, and increase the effects of the
cold.  Switching frames to ones with minimum contact on my face seemed to 
have helped.

8. EXERCISING - when I jogged 5 miles a day, or regularly played racketball
I was much healthier overall and my sinus problems were less severe. 
Unfortunately, I've been deliquent, but I'm trying to get back into the
swing of things.  Make sure you keep the head warm, and you can jog in
all but the worst weather.

9. VAPORUB/ MENTHOLATUM: Before I shower or exercise, I put a little on my
nose.  It helps the steam loosen things up and keeps the sinuses clear.

That's it for now.  I hope this helps my fellow suffers!!!!!!
Ihor Kinal
houxt!ijk