Sore Face Due to Sinus Trouble

Also called acute sinusitis or rhinosinusitis, a sinus infection is an uncomfortable condition in which the nasal passages become inflamed and swollen. The irritation inhibits normal mucus drainage, which can lead to a buildup of mucus in the nasal cavities. According to the Mayo Clinic, this excess mucus creates a breeding ground for bacteria, and infection often inhabits the four sinus regions, making the face feel tender.

Maxillary Sinuses

• The maxillary sinuses are the largest sinus cavities, residing under the eyes, just below the cheekbones, and flanking the nose. Since the draining orifice for the maxillary sinuses is near the top of the sinuses, they do not drain efficiently and thus are prone to infection.

Frontal Sinuses

• Located across the forehead and above each brow, the frontal sinuses are not present at birth but develop in the early years. Some people never fully develop frontal sinuses. A severe headache that gets worse when the sufferer lies down could mean that the frontal sinuses are infected.

Ethmoid Sinuses

• The ethmoid sinuses lay between the nose and the eyes. These small sinuses may cause pain around the eye if they become infected and, if left untreated, could lead to abscess around the eyes.

Sphenoid Sinuses

• Located deeper within the skull and relative to the temples, the sphenoid sinuses do not fully mature until puberty. Pain behind the eyes or forehead often indicate an infection in these sinuses.

Sinus Pain Relief

• If an infection in any sinus cavities is suspected, try using a neti pot to irrigate the sinuses. Use a nasal saline spray to keep the nasal cavities moist, and place a humidifier in the bedroom. Take over-the-counter ibuprofen to reduce swelling and inflammation within the nasal cavities, and drink plenty of water to thin mucus. If home remedies do not improve the symptoms, seek medical attention; a physician may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the infection.