I had my first sinus infection last month and the pain shocked me – every bone in my face ached. I also had a yellow, sometimes bloody nose that lasted for several days. A course of antibiotics can help clear it up. What steps can I take to ensure I don’t get reinfected?
Infections can cause tenderness in the face and neck, jaw pain, headaches, and even toothaches.
One of the most important steps to minimize the risk of reinfection is to support your immune system.
You should take at least 2,000-3,000 mg of vitamin C daily, along with a daily dose of 30-40 mg of zinc.
Eliminate refined and processed foods from your diet, increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables—the fresher, the better—and choose organic foods whenever possible.
This will strengthen your defenses and reduce the likelihood of excessive mucus production and inflammation.
Several herbs can help with immune support in treating sinus problems. Thyme is a well-known bronchial support herb and is also prescribed by herbalists where sinusitis is a problem.
Horseradish is another plant that has an affinity for sinus ailments, whether it’s infection or congestion.
Solidago and hyssop are both ideal for treating chronic nasal catarrh. Not only is eyebright good for your eyes, it’s also often used to treat infections in the nose, sinuses, and middle ears.
Elderberry is best known for treating colds and flu, and its berries and flowers are used to treat catarrh, allergies, coughs, colds, ear infections, and hay fever.
Rest is the best remedy for boosting your immune system, but it’s often overlooked and totally free.
During the resting phase, the body actively repairs itself and works to maintain balance in the body’s systems.
Changes in your nails can have a variety of causes, from hormonal health to the soap you use.
My nails are relatively soft, but the middle nail on my right hand always cracks no matter how short I cut it. What suggestions do you have?
One of the most effective natural remedies for strengthening nails is biotin (one of the B vitamins).
Not only will this help alleviate the tenderness you experience, but it will also help with cracking and splitting issues.
Research shows that taking 2.5 mg of biotin daily for about five and a half months can increase nail thickness by 25%, thereby reducing cracking and flaking.
You can buy a 1000 mcg (1 mg) biotin supplement from Holland & Barrett, where 120 tablets cost €19.99. Take two to three tablets daily for six months for best results.
Changes in your nails can have a variety of causes, from hormonal health to the soap you use.
Autoimmune diseases, thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, anemia, nutritional deficiencies, and adrenal fatigue are all causes of cracked and flaking nails.
If you think these conditions may be the source of your nail problems, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your healthcare practitioner to evaluate or rule out these possibilities.
Collagen is another dietary supplement that provides your body with the building blocks it needs for strong, healthy hair, skin, and nails.
Such supplements are often referred to as functional foods.
The good news is that a side effect of any supplement used to improve your nails is that it will also improve your skin and hair health.
Collagen powder can be mixed into drinks, soups, casseroles, and more with no real impact on the taste or texture of the food or drink.
Marine collagen is an excellent choice for hair, skin, and nails, while bovine collagen is often recommended for joint, bone, and muscle repair.
If you have questions for Megan Sheppard please email Feelgood@examiner.ie
Note: The information contained in this column is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor.