Sinus Headache

A sinus headache is caused by mucus build-up as a result of inflammation resulting in sinus pressure within the sinuses during a sinus infection.

Depending on which of the paranasal sinuses are affected, the location of the pain differs. For example, if the frontal sinuses are affected, then there will be pain felt on the front of the head just above the eyebrows.

If the ethmoid sinuses are affected, then pain and discomfort will be felt between the eyes.

When the maxillary sinuses are affected, pain will be exhibited in the cheekbones region.

The type of pain felt is more dull-like as opposed to sharp pain. This is caused by the build-up of pressure within the sinuses.

Sinus headache symptoms

1. A sinus headache usually occurs during the morning hours immediately upon rising and it generally subsides by the evening. This is caused by sinus pressure when the mucus cannot effectively drain off when one is sleeping.

2. When there is a change in weather conditions from say a sunny day to a wet, rainy day, a sinus headache can be felt.

3. Unless a person is suffering from chronic sinus infection, sinus pain is usually felt after a prolonged episode of nasal congestion, common cold or influenza.

4. In severe cases, pressing the cheekbones can be extraordinary painful when there is maxillary sinus infection.

5. For some people, a sinus headache can be aggravated by sudden movements of the head left and right and bending forward.

6. On rare cases, sinus headaches can be felt at the side of the head just above the ears. This could be explained by possible eustachian tube dysfunction caused by a sinus infection.

A sinus headache should not be mistaken for a migraine headache. This is because a prolonged sinus infection can lead to chronic sinus infection which is difficult to treat even with today’s modern drugs.

Migraine headache symptoms

1. Throbbing and pulsating pain associated with only one side of the head.

2. Nausea.

3. Vomiting.

4. Physical exertion intensifies the pain.

5. Pain is associated with intensity of bright light and noise.

Sinus headache relief

The source of sinus headaches is caused by inflammation of the paranasal sinuses which then produces thick, glue-like mucus.

It is the sinus pressure that causes the pain and discomfort. Modern medicines for sinus headache treatment involve prescription of anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids. If there is bacterial sinus infection, antibiotics need to be prescribed.

Some of the best antibiotics for sinus infection include Cephalosporins, Macrolides and Fuoroquinolones. Other medications used in sinus infection treatment include antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays.

Sinus headaches home remedies

There are several proven home remedies for sinus headache relief. This includes:

1. Steam inhalation with or without eucalyptus oil added.

2. Nasal irrigation with the use of a plastic syringe or a neti pot. These two methods are very effective because they allow the thick mucus trapped within the affected sinuses to liquefy, thus allowing easier drainage out of the ostia, which are the openings of the paranasal sinuses in which mucus drains out.

Sinus headache relief is almost instantaneous when adopting these home remedies.

Recent studies have shown that natural remedies for sinus headache can be just as effective as modern medication.

Besides being effective in relieving pain associated with sinus headaches, they also are free from the side effects normally posed by antibiotics and other sinus medicines.