The sinuses are made of small cavities that are lined with mucus membranes. A sinus infection is the inflammation of the sinus cavity that causes the mucus membranes to swell and produce high levels of mucus, according to MayoClinic.com. The pressure caused by sinus inflammation results in sinus headaches felt in the eyes, ears and temples, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Temple pain from a sinus infection is felt as a dull, throbbing pain. A sinus infection and temple pain is caused by allergies, nasal abnormalities or the common cold.
Allergies
A typical allergic reaction is sinus inflammation. An allergy is a hypersensitivity to a particular substance, according to MedlinePlus. Pollen, mold, dust and certain foods can cause an allergic reaction. The immune system reacts to an allergen by attempting to ward it off using antibodies that cause chemical releases in the body, such as histamine. Histamine results in sinus inflammation, causing the sinus cavity to swell and place pressure throughout the head. Allergies are treated by avoiding allergy trigger and using over-the-counter antihistamines and allergy shots. Talk with a doctor before attempting to treat yourself.
Nasal Abnormalities
Nasal abnormalities cause obstruction in the nose, trapping fluid and causing irritation throughout the sinus cavity. A crooked septum or nasal growths are the most common abnormalities that lead to sinus infections and temple pain. The American Academy of Otolaryngology defines a deviated septum as a displaced center nasal bone. The crooked bone causes minor or major obstruction, affecting someone's ability to breathe and drain mucus. Nasal growths are common among adults with allergies and asthma and children with cystic fibrosis, according to MayoClinic.com. Nasal growths trap fluid in the sinus cavity, causing sinus pressure, resulting in temple pain.
Common Cold
According to the New York Times, the common cold symptoms are nasal congestion, a runny nose and sneezing. The common cold is easily confused with allergy symptoms because they are similar. The difference between the two is the cause. An allergy is a reaction of the immune system to a particular substance, while a cold is the result of catching a virus. The common cold is a viral infection of one of over 200 viruses and has no cure. A cold can lead to a sinus infection and temple pain. The common cold is treated with rest, increased liquids and the use of over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers.
