Does Lung Congestion Come From Sinus Drainage? Nurse’s Guide

If you’re wondering if lung congestion comes from sinus drainage or if sinus drainage causes lung congestion there are a few things you should know. First, it’s normal for sinuses to drain. You want your sinus cavities to drain because a quart of fluid has to move through them every day. You don’t want them to get blocked. Blockage can cause a sinus infection. You may have symptoms of that now, such as pressure, pain, headache, yellow mucous.

If your lungs are congested, or your lungs or chest feels full, or you cough a lot, it’s a possibility that sinus drainage has leaked into your lungs. You may be wondering how this can happen. At night when you lay flat the sinus drainage that moves down into your throat naturally can slip into the lungs. This is a common occurrence and many times is responsible for a certain type of pneumonia. Many people have pneumonia as a result of this sinus drainage.

One of the ways to prevent this from happening is to make sure to prop yourself up on pillows at night so that you’re not laying flat. Laying flat makes it easier for fluid to escape into your lungs along with bacteria. You need to make sure that it’s not just your head that is elevated but your neck and shoulders too.

If you have a full-blown sinus infection now you can still help your lungs by propping yourself up. You can buy a wedge to slip under your pillows to give you better elevation that includes the shoulders and often just a pillow or two are not enough.

You should be able to get this wedge at your local medical supply house. They are quite common and they all have them. It’s a good investment – usually about $20 or so because it can help to prevent future problems and help you heal your lungs now.

Of course, there are many things you can do to prevent yourself from getting sinus infections, sinusitis and other sinus problems. And there are a few things you can do to help yourself heal. All natural of course, because you always want to avoid drugs, and medications whenever possible because they all come with side effects and risks.

Even over-the-counter medications have many risks, adverse reactions and side effects. They can act in conjunction with other drugs or medications you’re taking and cause problems for you from the combination. There are other treatment options.

So the answer of course is yes, lung congestion can come from sinus drainage. But you don’t have to suffer now or in the future if you take a few of the best natural steps to prevent it or cure it and get relief.