Relieving Sinus Headaches
Sinus headaches can be truly debilitating. When the sinus ducts become swollen, it places intense pressure on the nasal passages. The result is the pressurized feeling associated with sinus headaches. The pain of sinus headaches is most commonly felt in the forehead, nose and cheekbone areas of the face. While anyone can get a sinus headache, they most often occur in those with allergies and head colds. You can also get a sinus headache from bacteria. There are many things you can do to relieve the pain and pressure of sinus headaches.
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Things You'll Need
- Antihistamine
- Nasal spray
- Decongestant
- Antibiotics
- Humidifier
- Clear liquids
- Bowl
- Hot water
Instructions
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Take an antihistamine if your sinus headache is caused by allergies. Antihistamines cover your histamine receptors, preventing irritants from binding there. Since they'll combat your runny nose and head congestion, they relieve sinus pressure and sinus headaches.
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Use a nasal spray. Such sprays usually contain steroids, which shrink blood vessels in your nasal canals, thereby relieving inflammation and pressure. You should only use nasal sprays for 3 days as they can worsen your condition if used for longer.
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Try a decongestant. It will work to relieve head congestion, helping to drain mucus from the area in addition to calming inflammation.
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Ask your doctor about a prescription for antibiotics. If your sinus headache is caused by a bacterial infection, you'll need antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria. Finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you begin feeling better after a few days.
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Sleep with a humidifier in the room. Humidifiers moisten the air, helping to relieve sinus pressure. Dry air often exacerbates sinus headaches.
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Drink plenty of clear liquids, particularly water. Liquids will help to flush away toxins and bacteria that are contributing to your sinus headache. They will also aid in thinning mucus secretions, helping them to drain more easily.
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Fill a bowl with hot water. Cover your head with a towel and hover over the bowl, breathing in the steam. This will help to clear your sinuses, thereby relieving pressure and pain in your head.
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Elevate your head when you lay down. This will help to drain mucus from the head and prevent additional inflammation in the area.
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Tips & Warnings
Sleep is essential to recovery. Get adequate rest.
See a doctor if you cannot relieve your sinus headache on your own.
