Sinus Pain , Headaches

Sinus Pain , Headaches

Inflammation of the mucus membrane linings can cause a pressure increase in the sinus cavities and nasal passages resulting in pain and pressure in the head and face. Areas mostly affected are the forehead, eyes, temples, check area, posterior head, neck, shoulders due to tense muscles and ears.

Sinus pain and headaches are usually worse in the mornings due to poor drainage during the night and ease as the day progresses and mucus drains.

Causes of Sinus Pains and Headaches

• A sinus infections (sinusitis)
• Allergies
• Colds and flu’s
• Injury to the nose
• Menopause or hormonal changes
• A deviated nasal septum
• Congestion
• Nasal polyps
• Tumors in the nasal passages or sinus cavities

Symptoms of Sinus Pains and Headaches

• Tenderness in the facial area
• Facial swelling
• Hoarseness of throat or sore throat
• A feeling as if a tight band is tied over the head.
• Throbbing pains when moving ones head or looking at bright lights.
• Congestion
• Blurred vision
• Lethargy and lack of energy
• High temperature
• Coloured mucus
• Post nasal drip

Did you know when flying with a sinus condition, one often experiences sinus headaches? This is because flying causes immediate increases and decreases in pressure within the sinus cavities. As this pressure change is so immediate, the body does not have sufficient time to equalize its internal pressure with the external atmospheric pressure resulting in sinus pain and headaches.

Treatment for Sinus pains and Headaches

• Antibiotics help with sinus infection and accompanying inflammation of the mucus membranes.
• Using a humidifier will help moisten and liquefy any thick mucus thereby promoting drainage.
• The use of a saline nasal spray or netti pot will help with drainage of trapped mucus.
• Aspirin or ibuprofen may help with the pain temporarily, however the underlying causes will still be present.
• Inhale steam infuse with menthol or eucalyptus twice daily to help open up the nasal passages or sinus cavities.
• Decrease the amount of dairy or dairy containing products in ones diet.
• Avoid tobacco products
• Avoid stimulants such as coffee or tea
• Nasal decongestants and steroid nasal sprays
• Surgery is often recommended when one has a structural abnormality that is resulting in these blockages. One such condition is a deviated septum.
• Ensure you take a well balance multivitamin which contains Vitamin C and Zinc.