Some common ones, found in most Asian diets, are soy, corn and yeast. If you do have sensitive sinuses, don't swim without nose plugs. And if you have a cold, don't swim at all. Stay indoors in an even temperature and take care of your general health. If sinusitis persists, then Prof. Yeoh advises a trip to the doctor.
Air pollution can also irritate sinus linings.
Though there is very little you can do about airborne irritants, Prof. Yeoh says wearing a surgical mask will reduce the number of inhaled particles. Filter masks are also commercially available, but a damp handkerchief is cheaper and just as effective. Treating the occasional infection at home is simple. Inhaling steam from a basin of boiling water liquefies the mucus and flushes the sinus cavities. Adding a few drops of a menthol preparation such as Tiger Balm or eucalyptus oil will speed up the decongestant process.