What Are the Causes of Sinus Pressure?

Sinus pressure, also called sinusitis, can be an acute (short term) or chronic (long term) condition that can cause pain, swelling and headaches. Pressure in your sinuses is often accompanied by congestion, and can be treated with home remedies, over-the-counter and prescription medications. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Mayo Clinic, the causes of sinus pressure include respiratory infections and changes in the weather.

Weather Conditions

• Sudden changes in the weather, such as a decrease in humidity or temperature, can cause swelling of your sinuses and result in sinus pressure.

Allergies

• Seasonal allergies to pollen, as well as year-round allergies to pets and dust, can cause sinus pressure as a result of excessive production of mucus.

Infections

• Infections in your sinuses can result from bacteria, fungi or viruses and can cause sinus pressure by narrowing the openings of your sinuses and causing mucus to build up.

Chronic Conditions

• If you have a chronic condition, such as asthma, cystic fibrosis or a weak immune system, you may have frequent sinus pressure because of an inability of mucus to flow out of your sinuses.

Nasal Deformities

• Deformities of the structure of your nose, such as a deviated septum or a nasal polyp, can block the flow of mucus from your sinuses and cause sinus pressure.

Injuries

• An injury to your face, especially around your nose or below your eyes, can cause sinus pressure as a result of swelling and narrowing of the openings of your sinuses.