Dry sinuses can be caused by a number of different factors, including excessively dry air, snoring, infections, allergies, and genetic conditions. Many people suffer from chronic sinus problems that can affect their sleeping and daily life. Luckily, there are many home remedies and medications that can be employed to alleviate dry sinuses, including proper hydration, humidifiers, nasal sprays, and saline irrigation solutions. An individual who experiences very severe, painful, or persistent sinus problems should consult a physician, who is able to determine the exact causes of dryness and prescribe the appropriate medications to treat the condition.

Many people are able to find relief from dry sinuses by keeping their bodies hydrated and their environments moist. Good ways to do this are to drink plenty of water and fruit juices, take warm, steamy showers, and use humidifiers at night. When the body is properly hydrated, sinuses tend to become less irritated and dry. The steam produced by humidifiers and warm showers is helpful in moistening mucus membranes and nasal tissue, allowing an individual to breathe and sleep more comfortably. Additionally, doctors often suggest that people try sleeping with their heads elevated to ease mucus drainage.

When home remedies are not enough to treat persistent dry sinuses, saline nasal sprays and irrigation solutions can often provide relief. Over-the-counter nasal sprays, which are available at most pharmacies and supermarkets, may be designated for daily use or recommended only when a person is experiencing severe dry sinus symptoms. Nasal irrigation solutions, also known as sinus washes, are liquids that are flushed through the sinuses to break up dried mucus and moisten nasal cavities. There are many different types of nasal irrigation solutions and administering devices available at drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.

When dry sinuses are a result of allergies or an infection, over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants may help an individual overcome symptoms. Sinus infections and allergies often result in significant blockages in airways, preventing mucus from draining through the sinuses. Decongestants and other allergy relief medications help to soften blockages, and allow mucus to move freely and moisten sinuses.

Individuals with chronic or severe dry sinuses may be suffering from a more severe medical condition, such as sinusitis. Symptoms of sinusitis include redness, inflammation, and swelling of nasal cavities and sinus tissue. A doctor might prescribe high-strength nasal sprays to moisten and soothe sinuses, as well as oral antibiotics or decongestants to treat infections. Rarely, a persistent case of dry sinuses requires surgery to remove inflamed tissue, reshape cavities, and encourage proper drainage.