Sinuses are spaces in the head that produce mucus which helps drain out bacteria and keep the nose clean. However, when excess mucus is made, and the fluid builds up, germs may grow and cause sinus infections. Healthy sinuses can be maintained by:

• Staying hydrated - a healthy intake of fluids makes it easy for your sinus to produce mucus and flush out your nasal passages.  Flushed nasal passages mean less opportunity for a sinus infection to develop.

• Check air quality - You can check air quality at https://www.airnow.gov/ People often check the weather to plan their day but often forget to refer to the Air Quality Index for their area. Air Quality Index lets you know the air weather outlook for the day and provides information on allergen levels, smog, or polluted air from nearby fires.  This report is regularly updated so you can be aware of days that it’s a good idea to close windows and doors in your home or take other precautions to maintain healthy nasal passages. 

• Check your home air filters - over time, your air conditioning filters accumulate dust and cannot properly filter the air in your home. Regularly check your air filters monthly and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning or replacement.

• Bed linens - Change and wash bed sheets weekly.  It’s best if your linens are washed in hot water to kill dust mites, which are microscopic critters that can irritate the nasal passages.

• Dust regularly - maintaining a regular dusting schedule will help reduce allergens in the home. It may be best to wear a mask while dusting to help protect your nasal passageways.  Ceiling fans are easily overlooked, especially those installed above your bed.  So, don’t forget to wipe those fan blades too!