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How to Treat Severe Sinus Pain

Severe sinus pain can result from sinus congestion or sinus infection. In order to treat severe sinus pain effectively, a person must identify the source of what is causing the congestion. The sinus cavity can easily become inflamed from allergies, the common cold, environmental pollutants or bacteria. There are medical and natural treatments that can effectively treat severe sinus pain.

Things You'll Need

  • Decongestant
  • Anti-inflammatory pain reliever
  • Antibiotics
  • Warm compress
  • Saline spray
  • Neti pot or squeeze bottle
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Instructions

  1. Severe Sinus Pain

    • 1

      Take a decongestant. At the first sign of sinus congestion, take a nasal decongestant. Drink at least six 8-ounce glasses of water daily in order to properly hydrate the body while taking a decongestant.

    • 2

      Take an antihistamine along with a decongestant if you believe the congestion is a result of allergies.

    • 3

      Use an anti-inflammatory pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

    • 4

      Try antibiotics. If your pain is severe and nasal discharge dark yellow or green, you may have a sinus infection. A doctor will examine you and review your symptoms, their duration and what over-the-counter medications you've been taking. If she determines it is a sinus infection, she will prescribe antibiotics.

    • 5

      Use hot steam to soothe sinus pain. Take a hot shower and stay in for 15-20 minutes. Run a humidifier as you sleep. Boil water on the stove. Pour the water into a bowl and place your head over the steam with a towel over your head to trap the steam. Stay under the towel for 3 to 5 minutes.

    • 6

      Apply warmth to reduce any inflammation or swelling in the sinus cavity. Take a warm wash cloth, lie down on your back and place it over your eyes and nose for 20 minutes. Repeat this as often as needed. Allow the moisture and heat to soothe your nasal passages.

    • 7

      Use saline nasal spray. Spray twice in each nostril at least 3 times a day. Use more often as needed to keep the sinuses moistened and hydrated. Be sure to properly clean the nasal spray tip with warm water and soap after each use to prevent the spreading of infection. Do not share saline nasal spray with anyone else.

    • 8

      Try a nasal rinse. Use a neti pot to wash out the sinuses with saline solution. Use 1 cup of warm water, 1 teaspoon of sea salt and place in a neti pot. Tip the pot into the right nostril, allowing the water to run through the sinuses and out the other nostril. Gently blow your nose and repeat on the other nostril. You can also use the same solution in a squeeze bottle.

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