End sinus pain

Always congested? Prone to postnasal drip or a dry, scratchy throat? Your house could be the culprit! At least 52 million of us are sensitive to common household irritants— like dust and dander— and since we’re spending more time indoors these days, the s

Take the sun vitamin

Keeping your blood level of vitamin D-3 topped up all winter could cut your risk of congestion, sinus pain and itchy eyes by as much as 59%, three studies suggest. Explains allergist Hale Bener, M.D., this nutrient helps calm your immune system’s reaction to irritants like dust and mold. Your skin produces D-3 when exposed to strong sunlight; in winter, a daily 2,000 IU dose helps. Note: Check with your doctor before supplementing.

Crack the windows

Yes, it’s cold outside, but opening a few windows on each level of your home for two minutes can whisk away up to 45% of the allergens making you miserable, Canadian researchers say. Turns out the allergens that cause the most sinus trouble are the super-light ones that are constantly airborne— and a gentle breeze can quickly clear them right out of your home!

Blow gently

Spritzing your sinuses with a saline nasal spray is well-known to speed healing from colds and viral infections— and gently blowing your nose after each spritz could reduce indoor allergy symptoms by as much as 35%. Explains microbiologist Mark Koskela, M.D., saline rinses help flush out dust, dander and other irritants.

Nosh on broccoli

One cup of broccoli, cabbage or other cruciferous veggies daily could cut your risk of allergy flares by 44%, say UCLA researchers. Thanks goes to an anti-inflammatory compound (sulforaphane) that reduces sinus swelling, itching and other symptoms.