5 Habits That Make Sinus Infections Worse Nashville, TN

If your sinus infection seems to be getting worse despite rest, time, and standard medications, here are five simple everyday habits that may be contributing and what you can do about them:

5 Habits That May Make Your Sinus Infection Worse (And What You Can Do About Them) in Nashville, TN

❌ You’re dehydrated

During normal sinus function, the sinuses (which are the hollow, air-filled spaces behind the nose, cheeks, and forehead) naturally produce mucus that humidifies the air we breathe and traps and eliminates irritants.

When you’re dehydrated, the sinuses produce thick and sticky mucus, which is less efficient in doing its core job.

Thick and sticky mucus can also potentially get stuck in the nasal and sinus passages, causing buildup, congestion, and breathing problems.

✅ What you should do: always stay hydrated

Dehydration can potentially worsen your symptoms. Combat this by staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water.

Proper hydration supports overall health and may help maintain normal mucus consistency, especially if you’re already dealing with a sinus infection in Nashville, TN.

❌ You’re overusing nasal decongestant sprays

Nasal decongestant sprays are a common and sought-after medication for temporary relief from sinus infection symptoms, especially chronic nasal congestion. They work by narrowing the blood vessels lining the nasal and sinus passages. This may reduce swelling and offer relief, although temporarily.

While a standard medication for sinus infections, patients should only use it as directed by their healthcare provider, usually for no longer than three days.

Overuse of nasal decongestant sprays can worsen sinus issues as it creates a dependency on the medication and can further irritate the tissues lining the nasal and sinus passages. This creates a cycle of increased congestion and medication dependency, which is also called rebound congestion.

✅ What you should do: focus on proper nasal hygiene

You don’t have to completely stop the use of nasal decongestant sprays. The key is to use them only as directed. Remember to use them for temporary relief, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Additionally, practice proper nasal hygiene. Rinse your nasal passages with saline water. Irrigate your nasal passages with a neti pot to break down mucus buildup and flush out irritants. Always follow device instructions for proper use and only use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water to irrigate your sinuses to reduce the risk of infection from improper use.

❌ Your air is too dry

Dry air in Nashville, TN, especially during the colder months, not only irritates your skin but also your sinuses.

Dry air may contribute to the drying of the mucus membranes and irritation in the sinus and nasal passages, which can lead to the sinuses producing thicker mucus in some individuals. And again, thicker and stickier mucus becomes less efficient in draining and flushing out irritants properly.

✅ What you should do: use an indoor humidifier

Combat dry outdoor and indoor air by running an indoor humidifier. This may help improve indoor moisture levels and may potentially soothe irritated sinuses and support mucus drainage and overall sinus health in some individuals.

It’s best to run a humidifier, especially in your bedroom while you sleep.

❌ You’re ignoring allergens and irritants

Unbeknownst to many, but underlying and unmanaged allergies can worsen sinus infections.

Ignoring potential allergens and triggers, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, smoke, perfume, and other airborne irritants, can mess with your sinuses and exacerbate irritation and inflammation.

✅ What you should do: manage and minimize potential allergy triggers

While you can’t fully avoid allergens and irritants, it’s best not to ignore them. Instead, stay on top of potential triggers by:

• Monitoring daily pollen and allergen counts
• Wearing a protective mask when heading out, especially during peak allergy seasons
• Keep your home and working spaces clean and free from allergens and irritants
• Practice frequent hand washing
• Don’t smoke, especially when you have a sinus infection
• Stop wearing colognes and perfumes in the meantime, when you have a sinus infection

❌ You’re not getting enough sleep (and you sleep in the wrong position)

Adequate sleep and rest can support overall body and immune system function, especially if you’re already dealing with an ongoing sinus infection.

If you’re not getting enough sleep every night, you’re not helping your body recover and fight against the infection. Additionally, sleeping in the wrong position can cause mucus to pool in the sinuses, which can worsen nasal congestion and heighten breathing difficulty.

✅ What you should do: get adequate sleep (and correct your sleeping position)

If you’re battling a sinus infection, it’s more crucial than ever to get at least eight hours of sleep. Adequate sleep and rest support overall health and immune function, which may aid recovery. Additionally, if you’re already not feeling well, it’s best to take it easy during the day.

When you’re sleeping, keep your head elevated. This can help promote efficient mucus flow and drainage, so you can be more comfortable at night and get a good night’s sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sinus Infections in Nashville, TN

What is a sinus infection?

A sinus infection (also known as sinusitis) is the inflammation of the sinus lining that can cause mucus buildup, congestion, and facial pressure. The sinuses are hollow, air-filled spaces behind the nose, cheeks, and forehead. They produce mucus that humidifies the air, as well as trap and eliminate irritants. Sometimes, they become irritated and inflamed, causing fluid buildup in the sinus passages.

What does an ENT in Nashville, TN, do?

An ENT (formally known as an otolaryngologist) diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the ears, nose, throat, neck, and related facial structures. Common conditions they may address include sinus infections, allergies, ear infections, hearing disorders, balance problems (such as dizziness and vertigo), throat concerns, and sleep-related breathing problems (such as severe snoring and sleep apnea).

When should I see an ENT specialist in Nashville, TN, for sinus problems?

Some sinus issues can improve on their own, with time and proper rest. However, persistent, severe, or recurrent issues can benefit from a consultation with a qualified local ENT specialist, picked based on your individual healthcare needs.

Conclusion: Looking for Sinus Care in the Nashville Area

Tennessee Breathe Free provides ENT care services in Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and the nearby communities. Visit and explore our website for more information specific to our clinic, specialties, and services.