Sinusitis is an infection of the sinuses, the cavities found in and around the nasal passages, behind your cheekbones, forehead and nose. It refers to the inflammation of the mucus membranes in the sinuses, often caused by an infection or allergic reaction. In response, they create excess mucus which lead to blockages, causing immense pressure in the head. This excess mucus results in a blocked or congested nose but may also lead to a runny nose or postnasal drip, which spreads the infection and can lead to a sore throat. But amongst the many aches and pains caused by sinusitis, a sinus headache continues to be the most common gripe.
Sinus headaches are often confused with other headaches that have several similar symptoms, such as migraines and tension headaches. What distinguishes them are the causes, as well as their treatment.
Causes of sinus headaches
As a consequence of a sinus infection, sinus headaches are caused by an intense buildup of pressure in the cavities of the nasal passages. The pressure is caused by mucus congestion and can be very painful. Sufferers may feel the headache on either side of the head or both. Sinus headaches are directly related to sinusitis and, as such, any condition that triggers a sinus infection is likely to lead to a sinus headache. This could be due to a viral or bacterial infection, such as a cold, that worsens or goes untreated. Sinus headaches may also result from fungal sinusitis, which is caused by a fungus like mould, that makes its way into the body. A very common cause of sinusitis is seasonal allergies. Allergies caused by pollen are most prevalent in the springtime and can inconvenience sufferers greatly. So much so that those with hay fever are forced to avoid most outdoor environments and take regular allergy medication.
Some sufferers are afflicted with structural anomalies, such as nasal polyps or a deviated septum. Nasal polyps refer to abnormal growths within the nasal passages or sinuses that may obstruct the draining of mucus. A septum, on the other hand, is the thin line of cartilage down the centre of the inner nose. If the cartilage is skewed, it too may block the drainage causing build-up and pressure.
Treatment and prevention
Without a doubt, the prevention of sinus headaches is simpler than the cure, but if a sinus infection is unavoidable, there are a few treatments that can easily be done at home:
Pain relief medication.
Apply a warm compress to the affected areas.
Use a decongestant to reduce sinus swelling and allow mucus to drain.
Try a saline nose spray or drops to thin mucus.
Use a vaporiser or steam your face over a bowl of hot water or in the shower.
The prevention of sinus headaches is to treat sinusitis on the whole. Both acute and chronic sinusitis can be diagnosed by a doctor or other medical professional, such as an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor. Seasonal sinusitis can be diagnosed and treated by an allergy specialist. Sinusitis is a medical condition that requires an official diagnosis and treatment plan. Always seek the advice of a doctor or pharmacist as to what relief is available to you.
Allergic rhinitis received its common name, hay fever, in the 19th century when it was first described. Learn everything you need to know about this common and annoying
