How to Treat Sinus Headaches Without Prescription Drugs

A sinus headache is one of the most painful type of headaches. Characterized by sharp pain around the forehead, cheeks, nose and eyes, sinus headaches are hard to get rid of. In the midst of a sinus headache, coughing or sneezing will hurt, as will putting your head down—and forget about reading, looking at the computer or watching television. You may feel congested and that your ears are clogged. Often sinus headaches occur in the presence of sinusitis, which is the inflammation of your sinuses. If you have an infection, you may need prescription drugs. However, you can treat a sinus headache that is not related to an infection without using prescription drugs.

Instructions

• 1

  Drink hot chicken soup. Chicken soup is a natural decongestant. Vegetarian and beef stock do not have the same effect, though the steam of these soups might help.

• 2

  Eat foods with hot pepper or horseradish in them, if you tolerate spicy foods; they can make you sneeze, which can clear out congestion.

• 3

  Avoid all sources of dairy, including milk, yogurt, cheese and butter. Dairy may increase mucus production, making sinus pain worse.

• 4

  Take a hot shower with the shower door or curtain closed, letting the steam build up. Shower for at least 15 minutes and breathe in as much steam as you can. This may provide temporary relief.

• 5

  Eat garlic. Crush a clove of garlic, peel it, keep it in your mouth for 15 minutes, then eat it.

• 6

  Take an over-the-counter decongestant, vasoconstrictor, or pain reliever, or use saline nose drops or a nasal spray. The goal is to clear your congestion if you have a stuffed up nose and thus ease the pressure in your sinuses.