What are the Options for Sinus Pressure Relief?

Allergies, traveling by plane or sudden changes in the weather can cause painful sinus pressure. Symptoms include headaches, facial swelling and nasal congestion, and can lead to sinus infections if left untreated. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine, options for sinus pressure relief include home remedies, over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Rinses

• Rinsing your sinuses with a saline solution using a neti pot or a misting or spray bottle can thin the mucus in your sinuses and reduce sinus pressure.

Hydration

• Drinking fluids, such as chicken broth, hot tea, juice and water, can thin mucus in your sinuses and help to flush it out of your nose.

Pain Relievers

• Taking pain relievers, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen, may give you relief from swelling and inflammation that come from sinus pressure and headaches.

Medications

• Medications, such as antihistamines (Benadryl), decongestants (Sudafed) or expectorants (Robitussin), can help you loosen and expel the mucus in your nasal passages that causes sinus pressure.

Considerations

• If you are pregnant, nursing a baby or have high blood pressure, you may not be able to take medications for sinus pressure relief due to health risks for you or your baby.

Prevention/Solution

• Reducing your exposure to respiratory irritants, such as smoke and allergens, as well as frequently washing your hands to avoid infections can help prevent your sinus pressure from becoming unbearable.