Sinus headaches are caused by sinus congestion. Because the sinus canals run through the head, headache pain caused by sinus congestion can be accompanied by pain behind the eyes, around the cheeks and near the teeth. Sinus congestion develops due to a cold virus, allergies, a bacterial infection or a fungal infection. Sinus congestion that does not go away by itself is usually a sign of a sinus infection, or sinusitis. Sinusitis that does not clear up within three weeks is called chronic sinusitis and typically requires treatment with a prescription antibiotic or anti-fungal medication.
Step 1
Reduce sinus congestion by using over-the-counter oral and nasal decongestants for up to three days. Check the decongestant labels for dosage guidelines.
Step 2
Break up sinus congestion with a saline nasal spray, which thins mucus to increase drainage.
Step 3
Take an over-the-counter antihistamine if sinus congestion is caused by allergies. Check the antihistamine label for dosage guidelines.
Step 4
Relieve pain with an over-the-counter pain reliever if you are not taking a decongestant or antihistamine. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are two good over-the-counter pain relievers. Check the pain reliever label for dosage guidelines.
Step 5
See a doctor if sinus congestion lasts for more than a week. Sinus congestion that lasts for more than a week may be caused by a fungal or bacterial infection. A doctor may prescribe an antibiotic, an anti-fungal medication, a nasal corticosteroid or a prescription-strength antihistamine or decongestant
Tips and Warnings
- Run a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep to help break up sinus congestion. Take probiotics if your sinus congestion is due to allergies. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that probiotics may reduce allergy symptoms. Take probiotics if you are taking antibiotics to replace good bacteria that is destroyed by the antibiotics.
- Do not use decongestants for more than three days without a doctor's approval. Long-term use of decongestants can worsen sinus congestion. Because some decongestants and antihistamines contain pain relievers, do not take an over-the-counter pain reliever along with a decongestant or antihistamine without approval from a doctor or pharmacist.
Things You'll Need
- Oral and nasal decongestants
- Saline nasal spray
- Antihistamine
- Pain reliever
- Antibiotics or anti-fungal medication
