Sinus pressure is the result of inflamed, irritated or blocked sinus passages, according to Familydoctor.org. As congestion increases and mucus builds up, pressure is created throughout the head. This can result in headaches, toothaches and earaches. Sinus pressure may be the result of allergies, infection, weather conditions and nasal deformities.
Allergies
A common cause of sinus pressure is allergies. Seasonal allergies affect more than 40 million people in the United States, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. An allergic reaction occurs when a person's immune system doesn't recognize a particular substance such as pollen. The body responds by releasing antibodies and histamine to combat the allergen. Histamine causes allergic reactions in the body such as sinus inflammation and commonly manifests itself with nasal congestion, a runny nose or postnasal drip. The sinus reaction may lead to sinus pressure.
Infection
A bacterial or viral infection in the body may settle in the sinus cavity, leading to a sinus infection. A sinus infection aggravates the sinuses, causing them to over-produce mucus and swell. This can cause severe pressure to build throughout the head. A bacterial sinus infection is commonly treated with a prescribed antibiotic, while a viral infection cannot be treated directly. Over-the-counter medications such as decongestants and antihistamines may be used to treat the symptoms until the viral infection is destroyed.
Weather Conditions
The change in humidity, temperature or altitude may cause the sinuses to become irritated. When the barometric pressure changes, usually during the changing of a front, a person's sinuses may react with irritation. Going from hot and humid weather outdoors in the summer into a cool and dry, air-conditioned building may also cause sinus pressure.
Nasal Deformities
Nasal deformities can also lead to sinus pressure. Two of the most common nasal deformities are a deviated septum and nasal polyps. A deviated septum is when the center bone of the nose is crooked. This condition can be the result of human development or from an injury. The crooked bone blocks the natural airflow and nasal discharge, leading to the nose becoming clogged. In severe cases, both nostrils may be completely blocked. There is no medication to treat a deviated septum. The only treatment is surgery.
Nasal polyps are small growths on the inside lining of the nasal cavity. These non-cancerous tumors can also block airflow and drainage, leading to sinus pressure and reoccurring sinusitis. Nasal polyps can be treated with prescribed medication and/or surgery.
