What Causes A Sinus Headache
Inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses is the primary cause of a sinus headache. The inflamed tissues swell and produce secretions that clog the normal drainage system of the sinuses, causing a build-up of fluid and secretions. The pressure of this fluid build-up causes the pain of a sinus headache. Inflammation of the sinuses is known as sinusitis. The inflammation may arise due to an
- allergic reaction such as hay fever, or
Most commonly, infectious sinusitis is due to a viral infection, but bacterial and fungal infections of the sinuses can also occur. Since the maxillary sinuses are located in the cheekbone, infections of the upper teeth can spread into these sinuses. In very rare cases, benign or malignant tumors can invade and block drainage in the sinuses and lead to a sinus headache.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Recommended Reading: When Should You Go To The Doctor For Sinus Infection
Drink Plenty Of Water
Staying hydrated makes it a lot easier for your body to fight off infections. Water also helps clear out your sinuses. That is why it is important for you to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Additionally, water will help keep your throat moisturized and make it easier for you to cough up mucus.
Also Check: Herbal Supplements For Sinus Infection
Sinus Headache Vs Migraine
According to the American Migraine Foundation, 50 percent of migraine misdiagnoses start with a person thinking they have a sinus headache. The Mayo Clinic points out that 90 percent of people who go to the doctor for a sinus headache find out they have a migraine instead.
If you dont have any of the symptoms that come specifically with a sinus headache, you may be experiencing a migraine. Migraines are treated differently from sinus headaches. If you experience symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, or sensitivity to light, youre likely having a migraine and not a sinus headache.
Recommended Reading: How To Use Saline Solution For Sinus
Recommended Reading: How Do You Get S Sinus Infection
What Is A Sinus Headache
A sinus headache is caused by swelling and pressure in your sinuses. These air-filled cavities usually allow mucus to freely drain and air to easily circulate throughout the nasal passages. When they become inflamed, however, mucus becomes trapped and isnt able to properly drain. This condition is known as sinusitis, and it can be caused several things, including a cold, flu, or allergies.
As pressure builds up, it causes pain that feels like a headache.
Alkalol Company Mucus Solvent And Cleaner
This all-natural product has been widely regarded as the best over the counter medicine for sinus infection, based on consumer reviews. Alkalol Natural Soothing Nasal Wash Mucus Solvent and Cleaner is a powerful however very gentle solution that works tough to remove mucus, but soothes the nasal tissues to reduce irritation and discomfort.
The mixture menthol, eucalyptol, spearmint, pine, and cinnamon packs a powerful minty punch that leaves the sinuses clear and free from congestion for hours on end. Whats more, the all natural solution causes zero side-effects, making it the best sinus medicine ever for little children.
All in all, Alkalol Natural Soothing Nasal Wash Mucus Solvent and Cleaner is a straightforward, safe, and effective product that gets the job done. So if you want a sinus infection remedy that can ease your discomfort at a reasonable price, this is the option for you.
Don’t Miss: Is Zyrtec Good For Sinus Pressure
Tips To Relieve Your Sinus Pain
Are you among the 37 million Americans who have sinus problems each year? If so, theres a lot you can do around the house to create a sinus-friendly environment.
Here are some tips to help you prevent sinus infections and avoid the complications associated with it.
If you develop a sinus infection, begin treatment right away to reduce complications. Contact us today!
Consult Advanced ENT and Allergy if symptoms persist for more than ten days, if you have a fever more than 100.5, or if you have multiple sinus infections a year because all of these are signs of respiratory or sinus heath issues.
What Is The Best Pain Relief For Sinusitis
Sinusitis is the medical term for inflamed nasal passages and is treated differently based on the frequency and severity of swelling.
Acute viral sinusitis occurs occasionally and generally clears itself within a week. During this time, you can manage symptoms with pain relievers.
Chronic sinusitis occurs more frequently and lasts longer. While symptoms can be managed with OTC medication or antibiotics for bacterial infections. Chronic sinusitis may require intervention from an ENT.
Recommended Reading: What Works Best For Sinus Congestion
Otc Medicine For Sinus Congestion
When your sinuses become inflamed and congested, this means that the tiny, air-filled spaces that are connected to your nasal cavity have been blocked or are unable to drain normally. This buildup of mucus then causes a feeling of pressure or “fullness” in your forehead, eyes, or jaw. Luckily, OTC medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can alleviate pain caused by the pressure buildup.
Here are the most common types of OTC medication for sinus congestion:
1. Decongestant: Nasal decongestants are available in tablets, liquids, and nasal sprays and work by reducing blood flow to the sinuses, ultimately reducing nasal swelling and inflammation. Popular nasal decongestants include:
- Phenylephrine with brand names Sudafed PE, Vicks Sinex, and Pretz-D.
- Pseudoephedrine with brand names Sudafed, Dimetapp Decongestant, and 12 Hour Cold Maximum Strength.
2. Pain reliever: There are two main categories of pain relievers:
3. Antihistamines: Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies, but they can be used to treat stomach problems and the common cold among other ailments. Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, which your immune system releases to protect against foreign invasions. Histamines cause symptoms like inflammation, congestion, a runny nose, and sneezing. So antihistamines are designed to alleviate those symptoms. Popular antihistamines include cetirizine and fexofenadine .
How Can I Get Immediate Relief From Sinus Pain: 10 Sinus Pain Home Remedies To Try
Doing one or more of the things below can provide some temporary relief, but dont use it as a substitute for seeing a doctor, especially if its a recurring problem. Things like bacterial sinus infections can get worse over time if not treated with the proper medication.
Recommended Reading: Sinus Headache High Blood Pressure
Treatment For Sinusitis From A Gp
If you have sinusitis, a GP may be able to recommend other medicines to help with your symptoms, such as:
- steroid nasal sprays or drops â to reduce the swelling in your sinuses
- antihistamines â if an allergy is causing your symptoms
- antibiotics â if a bacterial infection is causing your symptoms and you’re very unwell or at risk of complications
You might need to take steroid nasal sprays or drops for a few months. They sometimes cause irritation, sore throats or nosebleeds.
A GP may refer you to an ear, nose and throat specialist if, for example, you:
- still have sinusitis after 3 months of treatment
- keep getting sinusitis
- only have symptoms on 1 side of your face
They may also recommend surgery in some cases.
Know The Limits Of Natural Sinus Pain Relief
You should not try to self-treat your sinus pain if you have symptoms such as as yellow or green mucus discharge persistent fever or stiff neck pain for more than 24 hours confusion, weakness, numbness, or tingling and persistent nausea or vomiting. These symptoms could be a sign of a significant infection in your sinuses that might need antibiotics. “Using natural sinus pain relief is fine if you have mild chronic pain or a headache related to a common cold or an allergy, but if you have severe pain that is not responding to these techniques, you need to see your doctor,” advises Das.
Also Check: Nasal Washes For Sinus Infections
What To Consider When Buying Thing To Take For Sinus Headache
Buying thing to take for sinus headache is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. There are so many things to consider when choosing where to live that it can seem like an impossible task. Weve put together a list of things to remember as you search for your next purchase. Its not just about picking out something that looks nice or even comfortable and reliable. You need to consider what kind of product you want and whether or not the product has all the features you need, and there are a lot! Were here to help you sort through all those options with our buying guide. Well cover everything from the basics to more advanced features so you can decide which product is right for you.
- How much does it cost?
- Is there an extended warranty available for this product?
- Are there any special offers or discounts available for buying this product?
- What is the return policy on this product?
- How much are you willing to spend?
- What size do I need?
- What features do I want?
- Whats the best brand?
- How long has this company been around?
Here are some details consideration before buying:
How Is Sinusitis Diagnosed
If you are experiencing pain and pressure that doesnât clear up within a week to 10 days, it may be time to schedule a doctors appointment. You can visit your primary care physician to be evaluated for a sinus infection.
A sinus infection is usually diagnosed empirically without need for imaging or cultures, explains Lindsey Elmore, Pharm.D., BCPS. A simple medical exam and review of your symptoms should be enough for your doctor to identify a sinus infection. Your doctor will likely check your nose with a light to look for inflammation. He or she also may ask you about any pain youre feeling to see if it traces back to the sinus cavities.
In rare cases, or if you get frequent infections, your doctor may perform other tests to rule out other conditions like a fungal infection. This may include allergy testing, a nasal endoscopy to visually inspect the sinuses, swabbing your nose for a culture of nasal drainage, or lab imagery to scan for abnormalities.
Symptoms may be acute or chronic , and you should seek a doctors help if you have symptoms that last more than 10 days, or are unresolved with over the counter agents as this may be an indication that you have a bacterial sinus infection, says Dr. Elmore.
Also Check: Things That Help With Sinus Pressure
Don’t Miss: Best Cure For Sinus Infection
Foods That Help Relieve Sinus Congestion
Sinus congestion has many reverberating symptoms that can ruin your day and put you out of commission. Sinus congestion is the fullness you feel in various areas across your face, head and neck caused by a blockage in the sinus cavities. Sinus congestion occurs when the mucus in your nasal passageway doesnt drain properly, leaving a build-up that blocks your sinuses.
You May Like: Medicine To Reduce Sinus Pressure
Alternate Hot And Cold Compresses
Reclining with a hot washcloth over your eyes and nose can help warm the nasal passages and loosen secretions, says Das. You can also alternate warm and cold compresses to relieve sinus pain and sinus pressure. Heres how to do it: Start by placing a hot towel or washcloth across your sinuses for about three minutes. Then place a cold compress across your sinuses for 30 seconds. Alternate two more times, and repeat the treatment about four times a day.
Dont Miss: What Helps A Sinus Infection Go Away
Recommended Reading: Best Over The Counter Allergy Medicine For Sinus Pressure
But Sometimes Antibiotics For Sinus Infections Are Needed
So how does one judge when it is appropriate to prescribe antibiotics for a sinus infection? There are several sets of official guidelines, which are all similar. When a patient has thick, colorful nasal discharge and/or facial pressure or pain for at least 10 days, they meet criteria for antibiotic treatment. If a patient has had those symptoms, but the symptoms seemed to start improving and then got worse again, then even if its been less than 10 days, they meet criteria for antibiotic treatment.
The authors, however, also suggest that doctors discuss watchful waiting with patients and explain that most sinus infections clear up on their own in one to two weeks, and its a safe option to hold off on antibiotics. The symptoms can then be treated with a cocktail of over-the-counter medications and supportive care, like nasal saline irrigation, nasal steroid sprays, decongestants, and pain medications.
Of course, many patients expect and demand antibiotics for sinus infections, and even those who are open to watchful waiting may hear about the rare but possible complications of things like, oh, brain abscess, and opt to treat.
In the case of my patient above, she met criteria for treatment. She weighed the watchful waiting option against the potential risks of antibiotics for her sinus infection, and chose the prescription. I can tell you from very close follow-up that she improved quickly, though in truth, we will never really know if she would have gotten better anyway.
The Difference Between A Cold And A Sinus Infection
The common cold is a respiratory disease caused by a virus. Its also one of the most common illnesses in the U.S., with adults getting an average of two to three colds per year, and children catching between eight and 12 colds per year. Most of the time, colds resolve on their own within three to seven days, with some symptoms possibly lingering for up to two weeks. But in some cases, colds can temporarily weaken the immune system or cause swelling of the lining of the airways or nose. This can lead to a secondary viral or bacterial infection, such as a sinus infection.
A sinus infection or sinusitis is the swelling of the lining of the sinuses and nose. The most common cause of a sinus infection is a virus associated with a cold. However, about two percent of sinus infections are bacterial infections. Sinus infections usually improve within 10 days, but when they last longer, theyre more likely to be bacterial infections.
Recommended Reading: Does Botox Help Sinus Headaches
Related Resources For Sinus Infections
* Prescription savings vary by prescription and by pharmacy, and may reach up to 80% off cash price.
Pharmacy names, logos, brands, and other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
This article is not medical advice. It is intended for general informational purposes and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your physician or dial 911.
What Are Other Remedies To Ease And Prevent Sinus Infections
- Run water into the nasals to clean it of excess mucus
- Inhale steam in the shower or bend over a pan with hot water
- Use a humidifier to moisten your air in your home to prevent the nasals from drying out
- Elevate your head to keep the mucus from clogging your sinus
- Dont forcefully blow your nose as it can irritate the nasals
- Use the decongestants with caution
- Dont use antihistamines unless prescribed by the doctor
- Balloon Sinuplasty clear the sinus by flushing the built-up mucus with saline solution
- Stereotactic navigation is a minimally invasive procedure that checks out any abnormal growths
- Endoscopic sinus surgery opens up the drainage passage of the sinus to restore its function
- Complex nasal polyp surgery. Nasal polyps are noncancerous growths on the sinus or nasal passages. The procedure, if done correctly, canclear the nasal passages and ease discomfort.
Read Also: Pasha Snoring And Sinus Center
The Causes And Treatment Of Sinus Pain
Sinus pain combines the familiar symptoms of a cold like a stuffy or running nose, sneezing, a sore throat and a cough with pain and tenderness in the face.
Understanding the sinuses
The sinuses are actually four pairs of air-filled cavities in your head. Their role is to ensure the air coming in through the nose is at the right temperature and has the right water content before it goes to your lungs.
When you have a cold or are suffering from allergies or hay fever, the inflamed nasal passages can cause congestion . When these passages become blocked, bacteria and germs can grow inside the sinuses. This can result in facial pain , a sinus headache, a feeling of pressure inside the face and even toothache.
Tips to manage sinus pain
To ease sinus congestion and pain, there are a few things you can do:
- Drink plenty of fluids to help thin the mucus in the sinuses
- Apply a warm, moist washcloth to the face several times a day
- Use a steam inhalation two to four times a day for example, inhale the steam from a bowl of hot water place a towel over your head to keep the steam in
- Avoid dry places and use a humidifier to keep the air moist
- Use a saline spray several times a day as this can remove thick mucus and help the sinus to drain
- Avoid things that can irritate the nose, such as cigarette smoke
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature or bending your head down.
When to see your doctor
Sinus Infection Definition And Facts
- Sinusitis or sinus infection is inflammation of the air cavities within the passages of the nose.
- Sinusitis can be caused by infection, allergies, and chemical or particulate irritation of the sinuses.
- The fastest way to get rid of a sinus infection can include medications, home remedies, alternative therapies, and surgery.
- Most people do not spread sinus infections to other people.
- Sinusitis may be classified as acute sinus infection, subacute sinus infection, chronic sinus infection, infected sinusitis, and noninfectious sinusitis.
- Sinusitis signs and symptoms include
Don’t Miss: Natural Remedies For Severe Sinus Infection