Sinuses humidify air, increase voice resonance, and reduce skull weight. Inflammation or mucus blockage can cause sinus headaches, which can be treated with decongestants, expectorants, antihistamines, antibiotics, water, and steam. Allergy triggers should be identified and reduced, and a humidifier can be used to keep the air moist.
The sinuses are air-filled cavities in the skull. There are four pairs of sinuses which function to humidify the inhaled air, increase the resonance of the voice, and reduce the weight of the skull. The sinuses can become inflamed or blocked by mucus, which can often cause a sinus headache.
The pain from a sinus headache can vary depending on which of the sinuses is affected. For example, the frontal sinuses, which sit above the eyes, can cause forehead pain. The pain may be accompanied by mucus discharge from the nose.
A sinus headache can occur for a variety of reasons. When an individual has a cold, mucus production increases. The sinuses could fill up with mucus, which doesn’t drain efficiently. A buildup of mucus can cause pain and pressure in the head. Allergies can also cause increased mucus and inflammation in the sinuses.
Growths in the nasal cavity or sinuses, which restrict the flow of mucus from the sinuses, can also lead to headaches. For example, benign tumors of the sinuses or nasal polyps can cause a blockage. In addition to the growths, structural abnormalities may be present from birth, resulting in obstruction.
Both bacterial and viral sinus infections can also cause a sinus headache. Sinus infections, known as sinusitis, often occur after a cold or other respiratory infection. The sinuses become inflamed and the mucus cannot drain properly from the sinuses. With the combination of inflammation and mucus, a sinus headache can occur.
Treatment for a sinus headache may aim to drain the sinuses. Decongestants can help promote sinus drainage. Over-the-counter expectorants can also help thin mucus and help it drain from the sinuses, which can reduce headaches. Antihistamines can help limit mucus production and may work for those experiencing sinus headaches due to allergies. If your headache is caused by a sinus infection, you may need antibiotics.
In addition to medications to reduce sinus headache pain, there are other ways to promote sinus drainage. Drinking lots of water can help thin the mucus, which makes it easier to drain from the sinuses. Inhaling steam from a hot shower can also help relieve a headache.
It may not be possible to reduce all headaches caused by sinus pain, however there are some things that can be done to reduce the frequency of sinus headaches. Identify and reduce allergy triggers. Use a humidifier to keep the air in your home moist. Reduce your chances of getting sick by washing your hands often, eating healthy foods, and getting enough sleep.
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