Aging, The Immune System and Your Sinuses

By Lisa Monroe

As we age, we may notice a few wrinkles and some gray hairs when we look in the mirror. However, there are also many invisible or internal changes…and that includes a decline in the functioning of our immune system. We rely on our immune system to identify and destroy bacteria, viruses and toxins that cause illness.

Sinusitis is one of the many illnesses that may occur. The Immune Deficiency Foundation noted that Sinusitis is the second most prevalent chronic health issue in the United States, affecting up to 30 million people annually.

An article by the National Institute of Health stated that “Immune system aging can increase susceptibility to respiratory infections, cancer, and leave us unprotected from chronic tissue inflammation.”

So, let’s take a look at our immune system, our sinuses, and steps we can take to stay healthy.

How Does the Immune System Function?

The immune system can be activated by substances that the body doesn’t recognize, known as antigens. Proteins found on the surfaces of bacteria, viruses, and fungi are seen as “invaders.” When these antigens attach to immune system cell receptors a series of processes are activated in the body.

How Does Aging Affect the Immune System?

1. The immune system may not respond as quickly as we age, increasing the risk of illness.

2. As we age, Flu shots and other vaccines may not work as well or protect us for as long.

3. An autoimmune disorder may develop as a result of our immune system mistakenly attacking healthy body tissues.

4. Since there are fewer immune cells as we age, our bodies may not heal as quickly.

5. The immune system’s ability to recognize and correct defects in the cells also declines and may result in an increased risk of cancer.

Steps to Prevent Illness as the Immune System Declines

1. Consult with your physician regarding vaccines to prevent illnesses such as the flu, shingles, pneumococcal infections and any other conditions of concern.

2. If approved by your physician, get plenty of exercise to boost the immune system.

3. Eat healthy foods to keep your immune system strong.

4. Avoid smoking, as it can weaken the immune system.

5. Limit alcohol consumption.

6. Adopt safety measures to prevent falls and injuries, as a weakened immune system may slow down the healing process.

Your Immune System and Your Sinuses

A weakened immune system can increase the risk of contracting a sinus infection. Other risk factors include: a previous cold, seasonal allergies, smoking, and structural problems such as nasal polyps.

Symptoms of a sinus infection can include runny/stuffy nose, facial pain or pressure, headache, post-nasal drip, sore throat and cough.

It is important to seek medical attention if you have serious symptoms, such as severe headaches, facial pain, or a fever. In some cases, your physician may want to prescribe an antibiotic or other medication.

Natural Remedies to Ease Sinus Pain

The Immune Deficiency Foundation cited Dr. Gary Kleiner as stating that “sinus ventilation and drainage are sometimes more helpful than drugs.” He suggested the following five techniques:

1. Drinking plenty of water

2. Irrigating the sinuses to wash out dirt and mucus

3. Using a humidifier

4. Breathing in warm air by placing a towel over a hot pot of water

5. Taking a prolonged hot shower

Saline-type sprays contain salt that can increase moisture in your nose, as well as decrease sinus pressure. If you are seeking an all-natural, chemical-free solution to relieve congestion you may want to consider Pressureze Nasal Mist. Pressureze is the first natural nasal mist to focus on quickly clearing, both, sinus and ear canals.

Summing it Up

It is an unavoidable reality that our bodies are going to experience changes as part of the aging process. Among those changes is the declining function of our immune system. In simple terms, we may not be able to fight off illnesses such as sinus infections, as well as we did when we were younger.

But the good news is, there are steps you can take to maintain your health and wellness so that when germs and toxins invade, you are better prepared. A healthy diet, exercise, and hydration are important to your health, as well as consulting with your physician about any recommended vaccines.

To keep your sinuses healthy, consider Pressureze Nasal Mist. Pressureze was designed to quickly get to the source of the trouble areas by taking a proactive stance to keep your sinuses and ear canals clear and clean.

No matter what your age, you will never be as young as you are today…so, to enjoy life to the fullest, it is important to take care of your health and that includes your sinuses!