Your sinuses are four connected spaces in your skull, found behind your forehead, eyes, nose, and cheeks. They produce mucus that drains directly into your nose and through it, helping keep bacteria, dirt, and other irritants out.
Generally, your sinuses are empty except for air that moves through the channels linking them. But allergies or a cold can block them up. Certain pollutants, like dust or smoke, and nasal growths called polyps can also cause blockages.
If your sinuses are blocked, you might feel like there’s pressure building up in your face. You might also feel congested and develop a headache. While over-the-counter decongestants can provide some short-term relief, they aren’t great for long-term use.
If you want to try a more natural route or have a recurring sinus issues acupuncture may help.
How does it work?
In
traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), your health depends on the flow of
qi (energy) in your body. This energy travels along invisible pathways,
known as meridians. These are found throughout your body.
Qi is believed to help keep your body in balance and promote its natural ability to heal itself. A blocked or disrupted flow of qi can negatively impact physical and emotional well-being.
During an acupuncture session, very thin needles are inserted into your skin to stimulate certain points, based on the symptoms you’re addressing. This stimulation, according to TCM, helps to clear blockages along your meridians, restoring the flow of qi through your body.
People use acupuncture to help with a range of sinus issues, including hay fever, headaches, pressure, pain, and nasal congestion.
What causes sinus issues?
Wind Heat (or Wind Cold transforming into heat) is the most common external cause, while Wind Cold (without heat) is a common cause for nasal congestion. Invasion of Wind disrupts the function of the Lung system, in this case obstructing and preventing drainage of normal fluids of the sinuses and nasal passages. If Heat is present, these fluids quickly condense to form the thick, sticky yellow or green mucus present.
Other causes include:
Liver Qi Stagnation with Stagnant Heat
Ongoing
stress and repressed emotions disrupt the circulation of Liver qi.
Prolonged qi stagnation generates Heat which can rise to the sinuses,
drying fluids and causing congestion of the mucous membranes.
Phlegm Heat
This
pattern is caused or prolonged by over consumption of Heating and/or
Phlegm producing substances, such as rich, greasy foods and alcohol.
Lung and Spleen Qi Deficiency
Overwork,
excessive worry or mental activity, irregular eating habits, excessive
consumption of cold, raw foods or prolonged illness can weaken the
Spleen and lung qi.
Kidney Deficiency
Kidney
deficiency is usually a factor in Chronic conditions, ans almost always
in older people. It can be acquired from chronic illness, aging or
overexertion, or it can be inherited.