Sinus pressure
Understanding Sinus Pressure
Sinus pressure refers to the feeling of pressure in your face, head or neck caused by inflamed and clogged sinus cavities. The sensation of pressure can range from mild to severe, and it often worsens when a person changes position, such as when bending over or lying down. Sinus pressure can be a sign of a common cold, allergies, or sinusitis. Here’s what you need to know about sinus pressure, including common causes, warning signs, and treatment options.
Causes of Sinus Pressure
Sinus pressure is usually caused by inflammation or swelling of the sinus passages. Common causes of sinus inflammation include:
- Allergies
- Common cold
- Dry air
- Nasal polyps
- Deviated septum
- Hay fever
- Sinus infection
In some cases, sinus pressure can be caused by the use of certain medications or tobacco smoke.
Warning Signs
There are several warning signs to look out for in cases of sinus pressure. These include:
- Headache
- Facial pain or tenderness
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Fever
- Bad breath
- Cough
- Fatigue
Treatments for Sinus Pressure
The best way to treat sinus pressure is to treat the underlying condition, such as allergies, cold, or sinus infection. Common treatments include:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Using a humidifier
- Applying warm compresses to the face
- Using over-the-counter nasal sprays
- Taking over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to relieve pain
- Using prescription nasal sprays, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation
- Using antibiotics to treat bacterial infections
- Avoiding allergy triggers
- Avoiding tobacco smoke
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, sinus pressure can be managed at home using home remedies and over-the-counter medications. However, if your symptoms are severe or if they don’t improve, it’s important to see your doctor. Your doctor may recommend additional treatments, such as nasal irrigation, to reduce inflammation and improve breathing.