Inflammation of the sinuses -- the air-filled cavities behind your nose, eyes and cheeks -- cause sinus headaches. Symptoms include dull or throbbing pain in the head and pressure in one area of the face. Treating the underlying sinus inflammation is the most effective cure for the headache, but this can involve prescription drugs such as antibiotics or corticosteroids. Some people opt for home remedies to treat sinus headaches in children.
Lifestyle Changes
Sinus inflammation, also called sinusitis, can be the result of allergies or a respiratory infection. When the sinuses become inflamed, air is unable to circulate through them and mucus is unable to drain. The nasal passages become blocked and pain results. A humidifier or a saline nasal spray can help reduce sinus congestion in children or adults, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Inhaling steam several times per day can also help. Other techniques that may be helpful for children include stretches for the head and neck and relaxation techniques. A proactive approach is to clean your house weekly to eradicate allergens that can cause sinusitis.
Supplements
Several supplements may help prevent or treat sinus headaches. Some studies suggest that bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, may help shrink inflammation and relieve sinusitis symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Eating pineapples is a safe way to get bromelain.
However, bromelain in supplement form is often combined with quercetin, a plant pigment in fruits and vegetables that may act as an antihistamine. Quercetin inhibits the production and release of histamine in test tubes, but there is little evidence that quercetin blocks histamine in humans. There is not enough evidence to support quercetin's safety for children, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Consult your doctor before giving any supplements to children.
Herbs
Herbal remedies are sometimes used to cure sinus headaches. One brand that is widely used in Europe and also available in the United States is safe for children 2 years and older. It contains herbs including European elder, common sorrel and cowslip, which may thin mucus and help the sinuses to drain.
Another herb traditionally used to treat headaches is feverfew, or Tanacetum parthenium. It is safe to give to children ages 2 years and older, according to the University of Maryland.
Herbal headache remedies not considered safe for children include Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis), Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), and Willow bark (Salix spp.).
Other Remedies
A simple ice pack or a bag of ice can provide relief from a sinus headache in a child. Place the ice on the painful area and have the child rest with it in place. Spicy foods also clear out the nasal passages. If your child likes spicy cuisine, serve him or her a meal with chilis, wasabi or hot Chinese mustard. Eucalyptus essential oil, a natural expectorant, can help treat sinus headaches. Put few drops of eucalyptus oil in a glass of boiling water. Have the child inhale the vapor with a towel covering his or her head to contain the steam.
