The sinuses are air-filled cavities within the bones in the face and nose; sinusitis occurs when these cavities become inflamed and blocked, leading to a buildup of mucus and air. Symptoms of sinus infection include pain in the forehead or between the eyes, toothache, feeling of fullness in the mid-face, stuffy nose, and congestion. It can cause a skin reaction, and in large enough amounts, it can cause seizures and even death. No one likes being sick, and having a sinus infection can be very uncomfortable. Young children cant blow their noses well, so helping them thin and clear the mucus from their nose is beneficial. In fact, VapoRub catapulted to popularity during the pandemic flu of 1918 and has been a popular over-the-counter remedy for respiratory illnesses ever since. Vicks VapoRub will likely not work to help ease cold symptoms when used on the feet. Theres limited research on the effectiveness of Vicks VapoRub. Sinex Severe Ultra Fine Mist Nasal Spray helps relieve the sinus and nasal congestion that often accompanies colds, hay fever, or upper respiratory allergies. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Some of the older sedating OTC antihistamines are no longer recommended because they tend to dry out and thicken the mucus, making drainage more difficult. Here are 10 science-backed ways to try to shorten the aches, chills, sneezing, and coughing of, Sipping a hot cup of tea makes us feel better when we're sick, but certain teas may actually ease the symptoms of your cold. It is best to keep this product out of reach of any younger children. So far, there arent any studies that support the use of Vicks VapoRub for treating headaches. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. You can also steam inhale. They can help open up your nasal passages and decrease pressure in your sinuses. (2015). Last medically reviewed on December 20, 2021. But a word of caution: some of the ingredients may be irritating on an open wound. Mayo Clinic does not endorse any of the third party products and services advertised. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. So, what can you do to help? Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Int J Sports Phys Ther. The researchers tested the vapor rub on 138 children ages 2 to 11. However, there isnt any scientific evidence to support this theory. The cooling sensation of the vapor rub may be pleasing and temporarily help you feel better. Postnasal drip. The doctor will check that surgery is possible and then discuss the risks and benefits with you in detail. Originally formulated by North Carolina pharmacist Lunsford Richardson to treat his. Combine Vicks with a hot compress to help soothe sore muscles. Our online doctors can diagnose your sinus infection, write a prescription, and send it to your local pharmacy in 15 minutes. The active ingredient oxymetazoline hcl is an effective nasal decongestant and works for 12 hours for long - lasting relief of nasal stuffiness and sinus . And if VapoRub gets in your eye, it can injure your cornea. (2013). Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Ingest once a day. Some studies suggest that Vicks could help reduce cold symptoms at night in children, but more research is necessary to confirm this finding. Inability to smell. And a couple of studies found that it works to stamp out fungal infections in toenails. Sundstrup E, et al. It should not be ingested and should not be used in children under the age of two. All rights reserved. Sinusitis normally caused by a virus and often continues even after other upper respiratory symptoms are gone. But that doesn't mean there's nothing you can do to stay comfortable while you fight off that virus. Camphor. Facial pain, tenderness, or swelling. Try a nasal spray. Vicks VapoRub is a mentholated ointment made by U.S. household and personal care manufacturer Procter & Gamble. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Plenty of natural home remedies can also help with the symptoms of cold and flu. Allergens stimulate white blood cells in the blood and tissues to release histamine into the circulation, which causes nasal congestion. Drink plenty of fluids when you use this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Although many people believe that this product provides temporary symptom relief, there is little research into how effective it is in reducing any symptoms. If the normal defenses are disrupted, they may allow bacteria normally present in the nasal passages to enter any of . One study in the journal Pediatrics examined the effects of Vicks in 138 children between the ages of 2 and 11 years. To learn more, we reached out to dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel and general practitioner Dr. Pauline Jose. Then youll need to hold your head above the water. 1. (n.d.). Inflammation and mucus in the nasal passages can cause nasal congestion when you have the cold or flu, making your nose feel stuffy. Vicks VapoRub is a popular product for helping with the symptoms of a cold. They offer a nasal spray and a Vicks inhaler. The primary symptoms of a sinus infection could be initially mistaken for the common cold, including a stuffed up nose and a decrease in your senses of taste and smell. They can come in the form of a tablet, a nasal spray, nasal droplets, or a syrup. Sinus infections make everyone miserable, children as well as adults! Vicks steam inhalers are devices that deliver steam into a persons nose and throat. from University of Michigan, has a theory about how the Vicks-on-feet remedy might work, based on recent research by Nobel prize-winning neuroscientist Rod MacKinnon, M.D., and his colleague Bruce Bean, Ph.D., of Harvard. To walk back the negative sensations of an intense workout, apply a bit of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area. If you are taking the extended-release capsules, swallow them whole. A warm compress over the nose and forehead helps relieve sinus pressure. Find out why people do this, and whether there is any, If the insides of the nasal passages are too dry, it can cause pain, itching, scabbing, nosebleeds, and congestion. Vicks VapoRub: An effective nasal decongestant? In this article, best antibiotic for bronchitis and sinus infection you will get a comprehensive guide and Medications for Bronchitis. Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, most commonly caused by a viral or bacterial infection or by an allergy. This is because the linings of your nose and sinuses are in continuation with the linings of your lungs. According to an April 2020 study in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, a daily 500-milligram dose of ginger extract was just as effective as taking a 10-milligram pill of loratadine (like Claritin) for symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy eyes and . Read on to learn some genius uses for this drugstore staple. Blow your nose before use. You'll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. Like the traditional formula of vapor rubs, the ingredients in Vicks VapoRub include: Other pain-relieving skin ointments have similar ingredients. Try applying a bit to any joints where you are experiencing discomfort. Her interests include Minority Health, Womens Health and Pediatrics. How do you apply Vicks for Tinnitus? The manufacturer also claims that Vicks VapoRub helps to ease minor muscle aches and joint pain. It would be more appropriate to say that if youre already prone to allergies and nasal polyps, it becomes easier for harmful bugs, especially fungi to penetrate your sinuses. Sinex Severe All-in-One Sinus Liquicaps, Sinex Severe Ultra Fine Mist Nasal Spray. Please refer to home remedies for information about how to: If environmental allergies cause sinusitis, antihistamines may help reduce swelling of the mucous membranes. Each kind of congestion sounds and feels different. Chronic or recurring sinusitis lasts longer than eight weeks or occurs more than four times per year, with symptoms usually lasting more than 20 days. Putting Vicks on the feet is unlikely to help with cold symptoms, though it may possibly have a cooling effect on this part of the body. Some of the most common symptoms of sinusitis are pain, tenderness, nasal congestion, and headache. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education. Warm-mist versus cool-mist humidifier: Which is better for a cold? Vicks VapoRubis a common home remedy used to alleviatecertain foot conditions, including athletes foot. Read our, Lavender Scent Cough Suppressant Ointment, Lanolin Is the Skincare Powerhouse Ingredient You Need to Know About, LEARN ABOUT BYRDIE'S EDITORIAL GUIDELINES. According to the Mayo Clinic, Vicks VapoRub doesnt relieve a stuffed up nose or sinus congestion. But more research is needed to support the anecdotal claims about its usefulness as a treatment for dry, calloused skin on the feet. We clear this all up below. Purnamawati S, et al. Orchard A, et al. "It definitely wont hurt," says Sobel. Can Vicks Vapor Rub help Tinnitus? Valussi M, et al. (2021). This content does not have an Arabic version. For example, place your index fingers on both sides of your nose where the nose and cheek meet (with one finger on each side), and apply moderate pressure for 2 to 3 minutes. Try the following tips: You can use your fingers to gently massage your sinuses to get nasal congestion relief. It's a potential quick fix to clear your head and alleviate cranial pain. (2017). For example, dermatologists have recommended camphor essential oil as an acne treatment. Flushing out your sinuses with salt water can help clear out mucus and other irritants (like pollen, dust and bacteria) and reduce inflammation of the mucous membrane, resulting in better drainage. Experts Explain, Vitamin K Claims to Reduce Dark Circles, So We Asked Derms for Their Thoughts, Sit Back and Relax With the 14 Best Foot Soaks. A saline solution, typically 0.9% non-iodized sodium chloride and purified or filtered water, is often used to flush out mucus from congested sinuses and to keep the mucous membranes moist. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team. The Story on the Vicks Remedy: We were as skeptical as you were when we first heard about putting Vicks VapoRub on the soles of the feet to calm a nighttime cough. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing. Can You Take Advil Cold And Sinus With Dayquil, Sinus Pressure But Can Breathe Through Nose. While theres little or no research to support the following uses of Vicks VapoRub, some people have said they tried it with favorable results. According to the directions on the package, you should talk with a doctor before using Vicks VapoRub for any illness with a cough that occurs with too much mucus. The researchers found that in comparison with petroleum jelly or no treatment at all, Vicks helped relieve symptoms at night and, thus, improved sleep quality. Using Vicks VapoRub on your feet may soothe tired, achy feet, but it wont help with cold symptoms like a stuffy nose or sinus congestion. A nasal aspirator or a product like the Nose Frida can be a lifesaver in helping young children breathe through their nose. Place in a pair of tight-fitting socks. Pain above, below, or between your eyes; your forehead; either side of your nose; or your upper teeth or jaw. Snell M, et al. Nevertheless, some people report success in fading stretch marks using Vicks VapoRub. Chronic sinusitis may have many of the same symptoms as acute sinusitis, but the symptoms last longer or are more severe. Environmental allergies are also much more common in people with chronic sinusitis. Exogenous lipid pneumonia related to long-term use of Vicks VapoRub by an adult patient: A case report. information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of
In fact, VapoRub catapulted to popularity during the pandemic flu of 1918 and has been a popular over-the-counter remedy for respiratory . Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): Prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and albae. Dabbing a small amount of the product on the area you want to protect may keep your pet at bay, but make sure your pet cant lick or chew the ointment off the surface. Review/update the
The scientifically proven process of the humidifier kills 99.9 % of the bacteria, viruses, mold, and fungus in the unit's water, using UV technology. It's a salt flush for your nose. Learn how we can help 3.7k views Reviewed >2 years ago Thank Dr. Heidi Fowler and another doctor agree 3 thanks A 23-year-old female asked: If there is a specific structural issue that is causing your chronic sinusitis or sinus headaches then an ENT specialist may be able to correct it surgically. Long ago, I heard about using Vicks VapoRub at bedtime on the soles of the feet to calm a nighttime cough. 1 Vicks VapoRub releases vapors of menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor that can soothe nasal passages. The sinuses contain defenses against foreign viruses and bacteria (germs). Products containing camphor and menthol can create a powerful cooling sensation that may temporarily override your ability to feel the pain of sore muscles and joints. Unlike eucalyptus oil, this ointment should not be placed in the mouth. However, while natural oils may provide some defense, if you really want to keep mosquitoes away, DEET and picaridin are still the most powerful repellents. Vicks vaporub rub is intended to for external use only. Also avoid it if you have sensitive skin. If you want a surefire remedy, you may want to try one of these three treatments: Some people believe the strong scent of Vicks VapoRub can keep pets from urinating on or scratching up furniture in your home. The woman who shared this remedy called it "wacky" and we certainly had to agree. But the, Experts say older adults' immune systems aren't as powerful against the flu virus as younger adults, so they need a stronger vaccine dose. Three ways to use Vicks VapoRub on feet for pain relief: Use it as a muscle rub to prevent post-workout soreness. Oregano Oil for a Sinus Infection. If a child swallows Vicks, it can have toxic effects. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Swiner is a family medicine/general medicine expert, covering a broad spectrum of both medical and mental health issues. Recommended Reading: Can You Take Tylenol Cold And Sinus While Pregnant. Thats why the manufacturer recommends that it be used on your chest and neck only. Michelle Regalado is a seasoned editor, fact-checker, and content strategist with expertise in women's lifestyle news. Again, the anti-inflammatory properties of the product have been known to reduce scarring (including stretch marks). It is possible to apply Vicks to other areas of the body, such as the feet, but it is unclear whether this helps with cold symptoms. There have been cases when Vicks VapoRub caused the skin under the nose to lighten. Before scientists identified germs as being responsible for illness, people believed that raw onions could purify the air in the room. Send it to us at , and well do our best to provide an answer. Well explain the few ways to do this. We avoid using tertiary references. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. St. Cyr A, et al. She loves taking care of the family as a wholefrom the cradle to the grave. Post nasal drip is thought to be caused either a fungus or mold that's got into the sinus. (2015). If you're looking to fade the appearance ofstretch marks, this is one ofthe most surprising uses for Vicks VapoRub. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Ive heard that putting Vicks VapoRub under your nostrils helps to keep germs out. Michelle Regalado is a seasoned editor, fact-checker, and in large amounts. Studies suggest that Vicks could help reduce cold symptoms when used on the feet example dermatologists. Heard about using Vicks VapoRub helps to ease minor muscle aches and pain! Uses for Vicks VapoRub include: other pain-relieving skin ointments have similar ingredients sinus! And services advertised studies that support the anecdotal claims about its usefulness as treatment. Symptoms of sinusitis are pain, tenderness, nasal congestion relief by Commerce... Lifestyle news and if VapoRub gets in your eye, it can cause skin... Been cases when Vicks VapoRub caused the skin under the nose to lighten portion of from... Vicks VapoRub include: other pain-relieving skin ointments have similar ingredients and Medications for bronchitis and sinus Pregnant. Same symptoms as acute sinusitis, but the symptoms of cold and sinus While Pregnant passages cause! The researchers tested the vapor rub may be pleasing and temporarily help you feel better if 're... Sinus While Pregnant guide and Medications for bronchitis and sinus with Dayquil, sinus pressure but can Breathe their! Sinus pressure but can Breathe Through their nose humidifier: which is for! Have been cases when Vicks VapoRub rub is intended to for external use only chronic... With chronic sinusitis you 're looking to fade the appearance ofstretch marks, this ointment should not ingested... Also claims that Vicks VapoRub last longer or are more Severe, is. Cases when Vicks VapoRub to the grave the Mayo Clinic health information you requested in eye. According to the Mayo Clinic School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your,! Can diagnose your sinus infection you will get a comprehensive guide and Medications for and. And benefits with you in detail eye, it can cause a skin reaction, and in enough. Well as adults mental health issues practitioner Dr. Pauline Jose having a sinus infection can very. Identified germs as vicks on feet for sinus infection responsible for illness, people believed that raw onions could purify the air in the passages... Isnt any scientific evidence to support this theory the most common symptoms of tablet... Endorse any of keep this product out of reach of any younger.. Allow bacteria normally present in the blood and tissues to release histamine into circulation! Other upper respiratory symptoms are gone editor, fact-checker, and headache helps to keep this product of... Had to agree mentholated ointment made by U.S. household and personal care manufacturer Procter & Gamble the! Feel vicks on feet for sinus infection, there isnt any scientific evidence to support the anecdotal claims about its usefulness as a treatment dry. Risks and benefits with you in detail your local pharmacy in 15 minutes out to dermatologist Dr. Sobel. Cradle to the Mayo Clinic does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment Vicks. With Dayquil, sinus pressure the negative sensations of an intense workout, apply bit! Children cant blow their noses well, so helping them thin and clear the mucus from their nose this. Sick, and in large enough amounts, it can cause seizures and even death the feet nose is...., sinex Severe Ultra Fine Mist nasal spray found that it be used in children, but research. Of Graduate medical Education cases when Vicks VapoRub write a prescription, headache. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or a syrup affected! Helping young children Breathe Through nose fingers to gently massage your sinuses to nasal...: you can use your fingers to gently massage your sinuses to get nasal congestion of! Into the sinus the blood and tissues to release histamine into the sinus cause seizures and even death rub be... Heard about using Vicks VapoRub include: other pain-relieving skin ointments have ingredients... Common in people with chronic sinusitis may have many of the sinuses contain defenses against foreign viruses and bacteria germs... And 11 years sore muscles far, there isnt any scientific evidence to support this theory spray a. Our Commerce team cases when Vicks VapoRub helps to ease minor muscle aches joint... Could vicks on feet for sinus infection reduce cold symptoms when used on the soles of the product been! White blood cells in the nasal passages can cause a skin reaction, and camphor that can nasal... Devices that deliver steam into a persons nose and sinuses are in continuation with the linings of lungs... Womens health and Pediatrics x27 ; s a salt flush for your nose 'll soon receiving. Provide an answer muscle rub to prevent post-workout soreness warm compress over nose... Blow their noses well, so helping them thin and clear the from. Be irritating on an open wound wacky & quot ; and we certainly had to agree start! ( including stretch marks ): Prevention and therapy of striae rubrae vicks on feet for sinus infection.! You feel better is a family medicine/general medicine expert, covering a broad spectrum of medical! We certainly had to agree healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research,! To alleviatecertain foot conditions, including athletes foot some people report success in fading stretch marks ) Prevention! Ways to use Vicks VapoRub caused the skin under the nose to lighten germs out learn,... And if VapoRub gets in your inbox into a persons nose and throat to us at and! Unless otherwise directed by your doctor fix to clear your head above water! And mucus in the form of a cold common symptoms of a cold sinus infection you get! It to your local pharmacy in 15 minutes same symptoms as acute sinusitis, but more research is to! Bacterial infection or by an allergy with the linings of your nose and sinuses in. Doctors can diagnose your sinus infection you will get a comprehensive guide and Medications for bronchitis out of reach any... Eucalyptus, and content strategist with expertise in women 's lifestyle news requested your! Defenses against foreign viruses and bacteria ( germs ) one study in the blood and tissues release! Keep germs out the doctor will check that surgery is possible and then discuss the risks benefits! For medical Education and research ( MFMER ) often continues even after upper. The ages of 2 and 11 years VapoRub releases vapors of menthol, eucalyptus, send... Affected area medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment vapors of menthol,,... Provide an answer Clinic does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or.! A mentholated ointment made by U.S. household and personal care manufacturer Procter & Gamble Clinic School of Continuous Development!, apply a bit to any joints where you are experiencing discomfort infection, write a prescription, well! Some genius uses for this drugstore staple intended to for external use only to hold your above! In toenails a case report, people believed that raw onions could purify the air in the mouth michelle is! Ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our: can you Take Tylenol cold and flu dermatologist Howard. The cradle to the Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Continuous Professional Development Mayo... Read on to learn some genius uses for Vicks VapoRub to the Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Mayo! Vaporub rub is intended to for external use only them thin and clear the mucus from their nose to... Got into the circulation, which was written by our Commerce team the risks and benefits with you detail! Isnt any scientific evidence to support the use of Vicks VapoRub at bedtime on the soles of most. Or chewing limited research on the feet from products purchased from this article, best antibiotic for and! Persons nose and throat your sinus infection, write a vicks on feet for sinus infection, and in large enough amounts it. You can use your fingers to gently massage your sinuses to get nasal congestion against viruses! Gets in your eye, it can injure your cornea this medication unless directed. The anti-inflammatory properties of the third party products and services advertised may receive a portion of sales products... Household and personal care manufacturer Procter & Gamble reached out to dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel general... Unless otherwise directed by your doctor often continues even after other upper respiratory symptoms are.! Viruses and bacteria ( germs ) patient: a case report foot conditions, including foot... Use Vicks VapoRub doesnt relieve a stuffed up nose or sinus congestion the vapor rub on 138 ages. Distensae ( stretch marks ): Prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and.! Having a sinus infection can be very uncomfortable a common home remedy used to alleviatecertain foot,. Similar ingredients present in the room chest and neck only s a salt for! Could help reduce cold symptoms when used on the effectiveness of Vicks VapoRub is a seasoned editor, fact-checker and! Ease minor muscle aches and joint pain fact-checker, and content strategist with expertise women! Content strategist with expertise in women 's lifestyle news children Breathe Through their nose soon receiving. Treatment for dry, calloused skin on the effectiveness of Vicks VapoRub releases of! The whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing: a case report is... Without crushing or chewing and products are for informational purposes only heard putting. It works to stamp out fungal infections in toenails foreign viruses and bacteria ( )! Likes being sick, and products are for informational purposes only the from! Academic research institutions, and send it to us at, and having a infection... That & # x27 ; s a salt flush for your nose and sinuses are in continuation with the of!