Sinusitis causes sufferers a great deal of pain. Of the several discomforts, sinus headaches are known to be the most unrelenting. Sinus headaches are the result of tense pressure around the face and head caused by inflamed sinuses. Sinusitis is a viral infection of the sinuses – the cavities around the nasal passages. When the mucus membranes become inflamed and cause blockages, there is an intense build-up of pressure in the head. A sinus infection can develop from a number of conditions, such as seasonal allergies, a viral infection (for example, a cold), or anything that may interfere with the airflow and drainage of mucus within the sinuses.
Sinus headaches are caused by nasal congestion and the obstruction of airflow from excess mucus in the nasal passages. This results in a blockage and equalisation of air pressure, causing negative pressure. Sinus headaches are very common.
However, sinus headaches are often confused with migraines and tension headaches so it’s important to know the differences. Surprisingly, most of the time, “sinus headaches” (as many self-diagnose them) are in fact migraines with nasal symptoms. If there is no congestion or pain in and around the sinuses, it’s not very likely to be a sinus headache and probably a migraine or tension headache. One of the most distinguishing differences between sinus headaches and other head pain has to do with nasal discharge. Should the nasal mucus be thin and clear, this is a sign of a healthy nose. Because sinusitis involves a viral infection, the discharge would be opaque yellow or green in colour.
Sinus headache symptoms
Pain and pressure in the forehead, and cheekbones, eye sockets.
Head or facial pain with sudden movements.
Fever.
Nasal congestion (a runny or blocked nose.)
Blocked ears.
Swelling of the face.
Relieving sinus headaches is relatively easy and can be done at home, however, if the pain persists (along with other sinusitis symptoms), contacting a medical professional would be advised. Some remedies include:
Elevating your head when sleeping or lying down.
A warm compress to the sensitive areas.
A nasal spray to ease the mucus discharge.
Using steam to relieve congestion.
Pain relief medications.
Due to sinus headaches resulting from sinus infections, it’s important to treat the infection as a whole. Getting treatment for and prevention of sinusitis is the best way to avoid sinus headaches. As such, it’s also important to determine the cause of the infection. By understanding the cause, measures can be taken to avoid further infections in the future. If caused by a viral or bacterial infection, prioritising your immune system by frequently washing hands and staying healthy will help. Avoiding allergens will prevent allergy-related sinusitis, such as pollen. Sinusitis can also be caused by structural obstructions such as nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or even dental issues. In this case, a doctor will be able to make a diagnosis and recommend the best way forward.
If you are suffering (or believe you are) from sinusitis, always seek the advice of a medical professional before starting treatment. Sinusitis can be diagnosed by a doctor and a treatment plan best suited to your needs will be found.
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