Sinus Pressure Pain Relief

Sinus pressure is generally secondary to sinusitis. Sinusitis is usually caused by infection, allergies or colds. The sinuses are air chambers behind the cheeks, eyebrows and jaw. The sinuses normally drain into the nose through the ostia (small openings in the nasal passages). If the ostia become blocked, the sinuses cannot drain. Mucus then builds up into the sinuses, which results in pressure and pain.

Hydrotherapy

• Alternating hot and cold compresses over the sinuses can help reduce sinus pressure and pain. Start with three minutes of hot, followed by 30 seconds of cold. Repeat three times, ending with the cold.

  Humidity helps relieve sinus pressure and pain by keeping the cilia working, mucus flowing and the sinuses drained. Take a hot shower or bath twice a day. Make it hot enough to fog up the mirror. Fill a bowl with steaming water and lean over it with a towel draped over your head, creating a steam tent. A hot cup of tea, coffee or soup can also provide some relief. Running a humidifier helps to prevent nasal and sinus passages from drying out.

Naturopathy

• A combination of goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) and wild indigo (Baptisia tinctoria) can help relieve pressure, pain and increase the immune system's ability to fight infection. Goldenseal can be mixed with a nasal wash of salt water.

  Vitamins A, C and E help to relieve inflammation. They also boost the immune system to help prevent infection. Zinc can also reduce the severity and duration of colds.

  Cajun spice seasoning is made with cayenne chili peppers, which contain capsaicin. Capsaicin stimulates nerve fibers and acts as a natural decongestant. Other hot peppers work in the same manner.

Medication

• Prescription antibiotics may be prescribed if the sinus pain and pressure is being caused by an infection. Antibiotics are generally taken for 10 to 14 days, but most people start feeling better within a few days. It is still important to take all of the medication, so the infection does not return.

  Steroidal nasal spray is often prescribed to reduce inflammation. The steroids do not enter the bloodstream, so they do not carry the same side effects that oral steroids do. Steroidal nasal sprays have to be used for a few weeks to achieve maximum effectiveness.

  Over-the-counter decongestants (such as Sudafed) can be taken on a short-term basis to relieve sinus pressure and pain. Decongestants constrict blood vessels, reducing swollen membranes and allowing air to pass. Decongestants should be avoided if there is an infection, as they may plug you up more when drying out nasal secretions.

  Over-the-counter pain relievers (such as Tylenol or Advil) can be taken on an as needed basis to relieve headaches and pain.