Sinus pressure is the result of excessive pressure built up in the head from inflamed and swollen sinus cavities. Sinus pressure and sinus headaches are the same condition, caused by various factors. A common natural remedy to ease sinus pressure is to use a sea salt rinse to cleanse the sinus cavity. See a doctor if you have sinus pressure that persists more than a few days or causes a fever. Sinusitis, a sinus infection, is a common complication of sinus congestion.
Causes
Sinus pressure is commonly caused by allegories, nasal deformities and the common cold. Whenever the sinus cavity becomes irritated, it causes swelling and inflammation, which leads to sinus pressure. Allergies cause sinus pressure from increased levels of histamine in the sinus tissue. Nasal deformities, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, can cause mucus to become trapped in the nasal passages, leading to congestion. The common cold is an upper-respiratory viral infection that affects the sinus cavity. Your doctor will determine the cause of your symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of sinus pressure commonly include a dull, throbbing pain in the center of the head that is worse when you wake up and progressively improves throughout the day. Other symptoms include facial tenderness; pain in the eyes, teeth, cheeks, eyes or ears; headache; postnasal drip; yellow discharge; mild to moderate fever and fatigue. Symptoms may worsen when you're exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity changes, or when you stand up quickly.
Sea Salt Treatment
Sea salt, along with water, is used to make saline solution. Saline solutions can be used in various forms to treat sinus pressure. The solution helps to remove any irritants, such as pollen, dust or mold spores, moistens the sinus cavity and removes excess mucus from the sinuses. Sea salt solutions are used in neti pots -- small containers made for the purpose -- in saline rinses and in nasal sprays, and are considered safe for all ages. Each method applies the saline solution a different way, accomplishing a common goal. Talk with your doctor about which treatment is best for you.
Application
Using a neti pot can help clear and maintain healthy sinuses, according to MayoClinic.com. Fill the neti pot with ½ tsp of sea salt and one cup of warm water. Over a sink, tilt your head with the neti pot in one nostril. Allow the contents to go throughout the sinuses and out the other nostril. Blow your nose and repeat the process on the other nostril. If you develop any pain during this process, discontinue use and call your doctor.
Member Comments