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Rainy Days & Sinus Pain

Changes in air pressure can cause sinus pain. The pain is caused by the difference between the air pressure within the sinuses and that of the outside air. A rapid drop in barometric pressure, often brought on by storm fronts, can sometimes cause severe headaches or fatigue.

  1. Sinusitis

    • Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that leads to pain. According to the Harvard Medical School, 20 million Americans a year suffer from at least one bout of sinusitis. This pain can occur in the forehead, behind the eyes, over the cheeks or at the top of the head.

    Function

    • Air gets trapped in the sinuses. Differences in air pressure trapped inside and pressure coming from outside causes pain by pushing on the bones within the sinus cavities.

    Significance

    • According to Weather.com, damp, cold weather, like a rainy day, can intensify sinus pain by introducing low pressure into the air.

    Short-term Treatment

    • According to Steven Dankle, otolaryngologist, sinusitis sufferers can use a topical nasal decongestant once or twice daily a couple of days before a storm front passes through to prevent pain.

    Considerations

    • Most cases of sinusitis can be easily treated. Pressure changes from rainy days only cause minor discomfort in most people.

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