How to Get Rid of a Sinus Headache Instantly?

Do you have a throbbing head and feel pressure around your eyes, cheeks, or forehead? You might have a sinus headache. Sinusitis or a sinus infection can be a disruptive and uncomfortable condition. Sinus headache relief typically involves a combination of over-the-counter medications and other therapeutic options that target inflammation and congestion in the sinuses. Lets take a deeper look into what is available.

📝 What is sinusitis?

Sinus infection (sinusitis or rhinosinusitis) is a common condition characterised by inflammation and swelling of the sinuses. Structural problems in the nose nasal polyps or a deviated septum can prevent the sinuses from draining properly and allow inflammation to take hold.

The sinuses are small, air-filled cavities located in the facial bones around the nose and eyes. They are lined with a thin membrane that produces mucus to moisten the nasal passages, trap bacteria, dust, allergens and other particles.

Sinusitis occurs when the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed and swollen, preventing the proper drainage of mucus. This can lead to a buildup of mucus, creating a favourable environment for bacteria, viruses, or fungi to thrive. The resulting infection causes the symptoms associated with sinusitis.

🤕 What causes the sinus headache pain?

A sinus headache is caused by inflammation and congestion in the sinuses, which are air-filled spaces in the skull around the nose, forehead, and cheeks. The build-up of pressure inside the sinus cavities creates the throbbing pain you feel in your forehead, cheeks and behind the eyes. Since the sinuses are lined with many blood vessels and nerve fibres, this build-up of pressure can be felt as fairly noticeable pain.

Other common symptoms of sinusitis

At the same time as a headache, you might have other sinus symptoms, such as:

• Toothache
• Bad breath
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Feeling of pressure in the ears
• A stuffy nose
• A runny nose
• Reduced sense of smell
• Postnasal drip (mucus in your throat)
• Green or yellow mucus from the nose

💡 How to get rid of a sinus headache instantly?

Fast pain relief is generally the goal when dealing with a sinus headache. Here are some ways to get rid of that pain:

Home remedies

Steam inhalation

A simple and effective method to gain relief is breathing in steam to help reduce sinus congestion. The moist air also works to clear nasal blockages. Just boil water, pour water into a bowl, cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 10-15 minutes

Warm compress

You can place a warm compress, such as a washcloth dampened with warm water, over your sinuses to relieve swelling. This may help open your nasal passages

Humidifier

Dry air can worsen sinus headaches by causing further irritation and inflammation in the nasal passages. Using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and reduce symptoms

Nasal irrigation

Use a simple nasal saline solution (salt water) with nasal irrigation tools, like Neti Pot to flush your nasal passages. This reduces nasal congestion, sinus inflammation and sinus pressure. A saline nasal spray or drops to thin mucus is also effective

Pressure point massage

Self-massage is easy to do by yourself. Gently massaging specific sinus pressure points can reduce sinus pain and encourage sinus drainage of mucus. Apply gentle pressure to the bridge of your nose, forehead, and cheeks with your fingers in a circular motion for several minutes. This natural remedy is a quick way to relieve a severe headache or facial pain

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water, clear broths, and herbal teas are great ways to keep sinuses clear and mucus thin. Maintaining proper hydration is another quick way to relieve a headache. Avoid alcohol as it can lead to dehydration, thickening of the mucus and making it harder to drain

Rest

Rest helps your body fight infection and speed up recovery. Propping yourself up with a couple of pillows keeps your head elevated and helps you breathe more comfortably

Medication

Nasal sprays

Nasal decongestant sprays containing steroids act locally in the nose and sinuses, helping reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, allowing for better drainage

Decongestants

Oral pseudoephedrine are common over-the-counter decongestants. Pseudoephedrine is a stimulant and may cause side effects such as insomnia, racing pulse and jitteriness

Pain relievers

Over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol/acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve headache pain

Antihistamines

If allergies contribute to sinusitis, antihistamines may be prescribed to reduce allergic reactions and relieve symptoms

📝 Conclusion

If these remedies do not work and the headache persists for 10 days or more, consider consulting a healthcare provider for prescription remedies or specialised treatments. Antibiotics may be needed in cases where a bacterial infection is present or suspected.

Sources

• Sinus Infection (Sinusitis): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
• Chronic sinusitis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
• Unlocking the mystery of your sinuses – Mayo Clinic Health System
• Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) – Antibiotic Use – CDC
• Sinusitis (sinus infection) – NHS