The discomfort of allergies is often compounded by sinusitis, caused by a buildup of mucous in the sinus cavities. Sinusitis is characterized by severe congestion, post-nasal drip and a throbbing ache in the face and head. Over-the-counter decongestants and nasal sprays offer short-term relief, but prolonged use can make the problem worse, warns the Mayo Clinic. Antibiotics may be needed for serious sinus infections.
Steam
Keeping your sinuses moist with steam can help them drain, which might clean out the bacteria or fungus causing the inflammation. Draining the sinuses also relieves some of the pressure that makes your head hurt. Fill a bowl with boiling water and place your face as close to it as you can stand. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 10 minutes. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or a dab of mentholated salve for extra decongestant relief. Do this up to four times a day.
Hot showers, hot baths or saunas can also provide some relief. At night, use a humidifier in your room to keep your sinuses moist while you sleep.
Keep Hydrated
Drink lots of extra liquids when you're suffering from allergy sinusitis. Keeping your body hydrated thins the mucous, which will help drain your sinuses more easily. Cold or hot drinks, including cups of chicken soup, are effective. Drinking hot liquids gives you chance to give yourself a quick steam treatment while you're at work. Hold the cup to your face and take several deep breaths of the steam, and breathe deeply as you sip.
Nasal Irrigation
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that regular nasal irrigation reduces the symptoms of sinusitis and may help prevent recurring attacks. Rinsing your nasal passages with saline solution helps to unblock your nose and thin the mucous. Mix 1 tsp. of salt with 2 cups of warm water. Gently inhale some of the solution into each nostril from your hand or a small glass.
Using a neti pot, bulb syringe or nasal irrigation kit takes some practice, but is more comfortable than inhaling water. Lean over the sink with your head tilted slightly down and to the side. Insert the nozzle into your top nostril and gently pour or squirt the saline, which will pour out the other nostril. Breathe through your mouth while to keep the saline from running down your throat. Repeat this procedure for the other nostril.
Warm Compress
A warm compress on your face can offer quick relief from the pain of a sinus headache. Wet a cloth with hot water and wring it out, then press it to your face until the cloth cools. Repeat this treatment several times a day as necessary.
