Chronic Sinus Pain Following Sinus Infection

Sinus flare-ups can happen at any time and can be provoked by multiple variables such as climate, allergies or the common cold. During a sinus infection a person can experience dizziness, a fever, headache and pressure throughout the head. For some, the pain never leaves even after the sinus infection clears up. There are many ways to treat and avoid such situations.

Causes

• There are many causes of a sinus infection. Anything that infects the nasal passages and causes swelling can cause the sinuses to clog and produce uncomfortable amounts of pressure. When a sinus infection is treated with antibiotics, the infection will clear up but the pain may persis because pressure produced by a sinus infection can bruise and even damage the surrounding areas of the head such as the ears, eyes and upper jaw.

Treatment

• Anti-inflammatory pain relievers are the most effective treatment for chronic sinus pain due to a previous sinus infection. The most common anti-inflammatory pain relievers are ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin. These drugs can relieve the pain and help reduce any inflammation or swelling that lingers from the infection. For many, these over-the-counter pain relievers do the trick, but for some a prescription may be needed.

Prevention

• The best way to prevent chronic pain from a sinus infection is to treat yourself with over-the-counter decongestants at the first sign of sinus congestion. This will prevent the sinuses from possibly becoming infected. If you feel as though you have a sinus infection, get to your doctor as soon as possible and begin an antibiotic regimen to avoid chronic pain. You can also make simple changes to your diet, sleeping patterns and the level of stress in your life to maintain a healthy immune system.

Symptoms

• Sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish sinus symptoms from a cold or headache symptoms, but often sinusitis is accompanied by pain in several areas of the face. People who have severe sinus problems often experience headaches upon awakening in the morning that progressively worsen throughout the day. Sufferers often experience runny noses, congestion, a persistent night cough, and the feeling of always being congested. Chronic pain is defined as the persistence of pain even after the sinus infection is cured.

Complications

• People who experience chronic pain after a sinus infection may need to stay under the close watch of a doctor. If the pain persists or worsens within seven days of taking antibiotics, there could be more complicated issues going on like migraines, dental concerns and even infection in other areas of the body like the chest, ears or brain. Pain is the body's indicator that something isn't working correctly, so it shouldn't be taken lightly.