What Are the Causes of Severe Sinus Pain Without Congestion?

There are eight sinus cavities in the skull. They act as shock absorbers and air temperature regulators. Many conditions that affect the sinuses can potentially cause severe sinus pain without congestion.

Considerations

• People with chronic sinus infections are more likely to have chronic inflammation in the sinuses. When the sinuses are inflamed, they become susceptible to many other conditions.

Frontal Sinuses

• A blockage or inflammation in the frontal sinuses, which sit above the eyes, can cause severe pain. Blockages are formed by a deviated septum, fungal infections or polyps. The pressure and inflammation present in the tissues cause pain, notes the Jackson Sinus website.

Ethmoid Sinuses

• These sinuses sit between the upper nose and the eyes. Like the frontal sinuses, if the ethmoids develop a blockage, congestion isn't usually a symptom. They cause pain by putting pressure on the eyes and lower forehead, according to Jackson Sinus.

Sphenoid Sinuses

• These sinuses sit deep in the skull behind the eyes. Tumors or polyps may develop, which places pressure behind your eyes and nose, resulting in pain. Individuals with asthma and allergies are more likely to develop tumors and polyps.

Maxillary Sinuses

• These sinuses sit behind the cheekbone. They can develop tumors and polyps, though this is most common in people with allergies or chronic sinusitis. Fungal infections may develop, which can be fatal if left untreated. Usually congestion accompanies a fungal infection, but not always, according to Jackson Sinus.