Sinusitis is a condition that affects the lining of your sinuses and causes them to become inflamed and swollen. You typically will feel some pressure around your eyes, forehead and cheeks. This deep pain and pressure occurs between your eyes and just above your nose.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
Some of the other symptoms of sinusitis and an indication of an impending sinus headache include the following:
- Pain worsens with bending or when lying down
- Fever
- Stuffy nose
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Nasal discharge
- Unable to taste or smell
Home Remedies for a Sinus Headache
Often times the pain can be alleviated with a home remedy instead of over-the-counter medications.
1. Hot/Cold Compress: Alternating hot and cold compresses on the affected sinus area can help relieve blocked sinuses. It can also reduce the inflammation of the sinus cavity and relieve the headache that is associated with it. Begin by applying a hot compress for approximately three minutes. Immediately after removing the hot compress, apply the cold compress for 30 seconds. Repeat this process three to five times daily to alleviate your headache and unblock your sinuses.
2. Take Vitamin C: Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C will fight the sinus infection and help boost your immune system. You can take a supplement or include foods that are rich in vitamin C such as oranges, lemons, pineapple, pomegranates, gooseberries, strawberries, broccoli and more.
3. Ginger Tea: Make ginger tea by slicing fresh ginger root. Place the slices into a cup of boiling water. Strain the tea and drink it while it is still warm. Ginger offers anti-inflammatory properties and pain killing properties.
4. Steam: Effective in clearing the nasal passages and relieving congestion, steam calms the mucus membrane. Allow a pan of water to boil for approximately 10 minutes. Then drape a towel over your head and inhale the steam. This will clear your nasal passages and relieve your headache.
5. Saline Spray: If you are finding it difficult to breathe because of blocked nasal passages, create your own saline spray. Simply combine warm water with a little bit of salt. Spray this mixture into both of your nostrils to help moisturize the nasal cavity and relieve congestion.
6. Warm Soup: Include any warm soup as part of your diet. If you like it, add a generous amount of pepper to your soups because spicy food will also work to clear out any nasal blockages.
Additional Tips
- Avoid irritants including cigarette smoke, allergens and other air pollutants.
- Use a humidifier or vaporizer to ensure that there is enough moisture in the air.
- Take a long, hot shower to open up your sinuses. You can do this a few times a day if your sinus headache persists.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water each day.
If these home remedies fail to remedy the problem, call your sinus doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will be able to determine the underlying cause of the infection and diagnose it before it gets out of hand.