The aftermath infection: sinusitis can sneak up on you after a bout with the flu. Here's how to fight it naturally.(THE DOCTOR IS IN)

Have you ever suffered from a stuffed-up nose; nasal discharge; fever; chills; headache; facial pain, tenderness, redness and swelling; a hacking cough; bad breath; post-nasal drip; fatigue ... and assumed you had the flu du jour? It may have been all in your head--or more specifically, your sinuses. You may have had an acute sinus infection, called sinusitis.

Inflammation in the sinuses leads to swollen tissues, which blocks sinus secretions. Stagnant fluid accumulates in the sinus cavities, leading to a bacterial infection. This can happen after an upper respiratory infection, a viral flu, a dental infection, even allergies or sick-building syndrome (irritation from airborne contaminants trapped in certain buildings)--anything that causes swelling of the nasal and sinus membranes.

This condition can end up being chronic and silent. Chronic sinusitis can be stealthy and reveal itself with very few symptoms, such as bad breath, a musty odor in the facial area, post-nasal drip, fatigue or a non-productive cough.

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You can do a lot to reduce the duration and severity of sinusitis.

Start with lifestyle habits. Slow down. Get enough sleep. Don't over-exercise. Drink plenty of water.

Eat to ease congestion. Avoid dairy products, wheat products, processed foods, alcohol, caffeinated beverages and sugars. They can aggravate mucus membranes and lead to irritation and congestion. Stick to vegetable and meat broths and soups, whole grains, legumes, miso soup and a little fresh fruit. Helpful anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial foods include raw garlic, horseradish, onions, ginger and hot peppers.