Blocked sinuses are a common health issue affecting people of all ages. There are many contributors to this ailment including allergies, colds, and even changes in the weather. And while most people resort to medicines to treat this health problem, there are other ways to relieve the pressure caused by blocked sinuses. In fact, these drug-free methods are based on physics rather than chemistry and they are equally, if not more effective in relieving a stuffy nose, a stuffy head, and stuffy ears. Today, we’re going to share with you a method that doesn’t involve ingesting anything, but is super-effective: Lymphatic Drainage Self Massage!
Lymphatic massage is a method of gentle self-massage that’s seen an increase in popularity for the treatment of conditions like lymphedema. According to the Mayo Clinic, it encourages the “flow of lymph fluid.” Because our sinuses are part of the lymphatic system, and since problems with them are usually the result of fluid build-up, this self-massage can be a big relief.
It’s easy to follow. All it takes is just a few moments of gently massaging and applying pressure to the right parts of our heads. Any of you out there suffering from sinus issues can do it!
However, before we get started, it’s vital to find out if you have or are demonstrating any contraindications that suggest you should not perform this self-massage routine. Heather outlines signs and symptoms to watch out for on her blog, and we want to make sure you’re not showing signs of any of them! Do not perform this massage before checking with your doctor if you have:
– Fever, acute infection, early onset inlammatory disease. You need to wait until the acute phase is over and the fever is broken.
– Circulatory system problems, especially thrombosis. If there is any risk of embolism of phlebitis, do not use LDM and see your physician immediately
– Cardiac issues such as heart disease, acute angina pectoris or coronary thrombosis (heart attack). Using LDM increases the fluid load on the heart, and compromised cardiac systems should not be subjected to LDM.
– Active m.alignant ca-ncers, undiagnosed lumps, or tumors whose origins have not been determined by your physician.
– Active bleeding, internal or external.
– High risk pregnancy or late term pregnancy with complications
If you experience any of these symptoms, definitely be sure to check with your doctor before performing this massage. In fact, we always recommend checking with your doctor before performing any home remedies, just in case.
Don’t have any of these symptoms? Have the all-clear from your doctor? Then let’s learn how this self-massage is done in the video below, and get those sinuses clear!