Sinus Congestion and Chronic Sinusitis

Sinus congestion and chronic sinusitis are common conditions that can cause persistent nasal blockage, facial pain, headaches, and fatigue. When left untreated, chronic sinus issues can significantly affect breathing, sleep quality, and overall wellbeing.

Understanding Sinus Issues in TCM

In TCM, sinus problems are often linked to:

• Wind-Heat invasion leading to acute sinus infections
• Dampness and Phlegm accumulation blocking nasal passages
• Spleen Qi deficiency impairing fluid metabolism
• Lung Qi deficiency weakening the body's defensive system

Treatment focuses on expelling pathogens, transforming Phlegm, strengthening Qi, and restoring proper nasal flow.

How Acupuncture Helps with Sinus Congestion and Sinusitis

Acupuncture supports sinus health by:

• Reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages
• Stimulating local circulation around the sinuses
• Clearing blockages and promoting drainage
• Strengthening the immune system to prevent recurrences

Key acupuncture points along the Large Intestine, Lung, Stomach, and Governing Vessel meridians are selected to clear nasal congestion and boost immune defences.

Studies published in the Journal of Otolaryngology and Acupuncture (2022) show that acupuncture significantly improves sinus drainage, reduces facial pain, and lowers recurrence rates for chronic sinusitis sufferers.

How Chinese Herbal Medicine Supports Sinus Health

Chinese herbal therapy complements acupuncture by:

• Expelling Wind and Heat causing acute sinus symptoms
• Resolving Dampness and Phlegm that block the sinuses
• Strengthening Lung and Spleen Qi to improve immune function
• Reducing inflammation and promoting nasal drainage

Commonly used herbs include:

• Xin Yi Hua (Magnolia Flower): Opens nasal passages and clears congestion
• Cang Er Zi (Xanthium Fruit): Dispels Wind and relieves sinus headaches
• Huang Qin (Scutellaria Root): Clears Heat and reduces inflammation
• Bai Zhi (Angelica Dahurica Root): Relieves sinus pressure and pain

Herbal prescriptions are tailored based on whether symptoms are more Heat, Dampness, or deficiency-dominant.

Different Patterns of Sinusitis in TCM

Wind-Heat Sinusitis

Symptoms include:

• Yellow or green nasal discharge
• Facial pressure and headaches
• Fever or sore throat

Treatment focuses on clearing Wind-Heat and opening nasal passages.

Damp-Phlegm Sinusitis

Symptoms include:

• Thick, sticky mucus
• Nasal congestion without discharge
• Heaviness and foggy thinking

Treatment aims to resolve Dampness and transform Phlegm.

Qi Deficiency Sinusitis

Symptoms include:

• Chronic sinus infections
• Fatigue and weak immunity
• Pale complexion

Treatment strengthens Lung and Spleen Qi to prevent recurrences.

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations for Clearer Sinuses

At Vital Duo, we recommend:

• Avoiding dairy, greasy, and cold foods that increase Dampness
• Eating warming foods like ginger, garlic, and onions to clear mucus
• Staying hydrated with warm liquids, such as herbal teas
• Practising daily nasal rinses with saline to promote drainage
• Managing stress through breathing exercises, meditation, or Tai Chi
• Keeping the head and neck warm, especially in cold or windy weather

Healthy daily habits greatly support faster sinus healing and prevention of future flare-ups.

Final Thoughts

Sinus congestion and chronic sinusitis don't have to limit your life. With the natural methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can restore clear breathing, reduce inflammation, and strengthen your immune system.