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What Causes Sinus Pain?

Sinus pain often occurs at the same time as sinus congestion and is sometimes mistaken for a tension headache. Symptoms of sinus pain -- including tenderness around the eyes, nose and temples, ear aches, facial swelling and a stuffy nose -- can be treated with home remedies as well as decongestants and pain relievers. Consider this information derived from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the American Academy of Family Physicians about the causes of sinus pain.

  1. Allergies

    • Seasonal allergies to tree, grass or weed pollen as well as year round allergies to dust and mold may be a cause of sinus pain (reference 1). Allergies cause the openings of the nasal passages to become inflamed, which narrows the openings and makes it more difficult for mucus to come out. Allergies can also cause the body to produce more mucus than normal, which can contribute to sinus pain.

    Asthma

    • Asthma is a chronic condition that can cause difficulty with breathing and can contribute to sinus pain (reference 1). People with asthma may experience more frequent sinus pain, especially if the asthma is triggered by allergies or other nasal irritants. Sinus pain may be worse during or after an asthma attack or participating in vigorous physical activity.

    Chronic Diseases

    • Chronic diseases that affect the breathing passages may be a cause of sinus pain. People with immune system disorders such as HIV or cystic fibrosis may experience more frequent or severe sinus pain due to their condition (reference 1). Other chronic diseases that can contribute to sinus pain include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and disorders of the adenoids or tonsils, especially in children.

    Personal Habits

    • Certain personal habits and lifestyle factors are involved in causing or increasing the severity of sinus pain. Smoking tobacco can cause inflammation of the breathing passages and makes people more susceptible to respiratory disorders that trigger sinus pain. Other personal habits that can cause sinus pain include swimming, diving and using nasal sprays (reference 2).

    Respiratory Infections

    • Respiratory infections can cause swelling, inflammation and production of extra mucus, which can result in sinus pain (reference 3). The common cold can be a cause of sinus pain in babies, children and adults, as can the flu. Other respiratory infections that can cause sinus pain include sinus infections, pneumonia and bronchitis.

    Weather

    • Changes in the weather can cause pressure to build up in the sinuses, resulting in sinus pain (reference 1). Dry air, low humidity and smog are weather conditions that can trigger sinus headaches, especially in people who have other respiratory problems. Changes in the barometric (air) pressure during storms can also contribute to sinus pain.

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