Ashford Clinic Blog
Sinus Headache Help
Sinus headaches are no fun. When your sinuses become blocked, one of the uncomfortable side effects is a sinus headache. The pressure is usually felt around your eyes, between your eyes, and above your nose.
To get rid of a sinus headache, you’ll need to address whatever is causing the blockage in your sinuses, and that could require a trip to see your ENT. In the meantime though, there are ways that you can treat the pain and soothe those painful sinuses.
Decongestants. Since helping your sinuses open up so that they can clear themselves is a great way to get rid of a sinus headache, decongestants are very helpful. They’re also available over the counter, and many contain pain relievers. You should keep in mind that nasal decongestants should not be used for more than three days in a row, and oral decongestants shouldn’t be taken for more than seven days in a row.
Saline solutions. Whether you choose a spray or a rinse, saline solutions are a great way of helping your sinuses clear themselves of irritants and loosen thick or dried mucus. They can also help to soothe dry or tender sinus tissue. You can use sterile pre-mixed solutions, or mix your own with sterile, boiled and cooled, or distilled water and a sterile salt solution.
Antihistamines. Blocked sinuses can also be caused by a response to allergies, and in this case, antihistamines can be used to treat the cause of the blockage.
Nasal Steroid Sprays. This treatment is sometimes prescribed for severe cases of blocked sinuses and sinus headaches. Your ENT will need to determine whether this is the correct treatment for you.
Unless you are experiencing a fever along with the other symptoms, you can try home treatments. A steamy shower might even provide enough relief to reduce your headache. If the home treatments don’t work and you’re experiencing a fever, noticeable swelling around your eyes, or redness then you should try to see your doctor as soon as possible. These other symptoms typically indicate an infection or other issue that should be treated by a doctor.
