1. Humidity Helps Clear Airways
Irritated mucous membranes and clogged airways can cause sinus headaches. Heavy mucus production and a thick nasal discharge put pressure on the sinuses, causing headache pain. Moisture relieves this pressure in several key ways. If you are prone to frequent sinus headaches, stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids maintains the health of mucous membranes. Keep rooms slightly humid by using an electric humidifier.
When you have a sinus headache, breathe steam in a hot shower. Raise room humidity by leaving a pan of water simmering. Sinus and headache pain are often accompanied by facial tenderness. Place a moist hot pack on the spot that hurts to both ease the pain and break up sinus congestion.
2. Take Medication for Short-Term Relief
Some painful sinus areas don't respond to topical heat. For deeper, more persistent headache, earache or toothache pain, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may work. You can take aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen in 4-hour intervals around the clock for a few days. After that, if you're still having headache pain, you should see a doctor for more help.
You can treat the congestion that is associated with sinus headaches with over-the-counter drugs, too. Try oral or spray antihistamines or decongestants to help sinus function and relieve the pressure that causes headache pain.
3. Seek More Aggressive Treatments
Recurrent sinus headaches may be symptomatic of more widespread or interrelated health problems. See a doctor or dentist to locate the underlying cause of your chronic sinusitis. If it is a bacterial infection, antibiotics may clear up the issue. Severe swelling may require corticosteroid treatment.
If polyps or other physical aberrations are at fault, endoscopic surgery can remove the obstructions that lead to your headache symptoms. If you have TMJ or a dental condition that is exacerbating or reacting to a sinus infection, addressing these problems may make your headaches disappear.
