A sinus headache, characterized by a dull pain behind the eyes, cheekbones, forehead or nose bridge, is an unpleasant side effect of sinus infections. Let’s take a look at why sinus headaches happen and what you can do to minimize them for better comfort.
Why Do I Have a Sinus Headache?
During a sinus infection, invaders like viruses or bacteria cause your sinus tissue to swell, preventing the natural flow of mucus. When your sinus tissues swell and fill with mucus, they make your face feel full and achy, like the front of your face is heavier than usual.
How Can I Get Rid of My Sinus Headache?
In most cases, sinus headaches will clear along with your sinus infection, usually within seven to 10 days. If your sinus headache results from an underlying cause like allergies or the common cold, treating or managing the root cause can help reduce the facial pressure.
In addition to managing the underlying cause, there are a few home remedies you can try to alleviate some of the pressure:
- Warm compress. A warm compress helps promote mucus drainage and reduce tissue swelling. You can make a warm compress at home by microwaving a wet towel in fifteen-second increments until it is warm but not scalding.
- Steam inhalation. Steam inhalation may help reduce sinus congestion. To make steam at home, take a hot shower with the bathroom fan off and a towel under the door or fill a large bowl with hot water and breathe in the steam with a towel draped over your head. You can also make a cup of hot tea with honey from a Frisco farmers market and inhale the rising steam as you drink it.
- Nasal rinse. A saline nasal rinse can help wash out mucus and calm inflammation. To perform a nasal rinse, fill a neti pot or nasal rinse bottle with a solution of saline powder and boiled, filtered or distilled water and pour the solution through each of your nostrils, tilting your head to either side to help the fluid move through the sinuses. If you’re using boiled water, boil it for at least five minutes and let it cool before using. After pouring the solution through each nostril, blow your nose to expel mucus. Do your best not to swallow the mixture.
What Do I Do About Recurring Sinus Issues?
If your sinus infections last 12 weeks or longer or occur more than a couple times a year, your sinus specialist will likely recommend a Balloon Sinuplasty or functional endoscopic sinus surgery to provide long-term relief.
If you’re in need of sinus relief, contact Collin County ENT today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.