How can you alleviate sinus pressure at home. What natural remedies are most effective for sinus headaches. Which techniques provide quick relief from sinus congestion. How to use steam, saline rinses, and other methods to ease sinus discomfort.

Understanding Sinus Pressure and Its Causes

Sinus pressure is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the nasal passages become blocked, leading to inflammation and discomfort in the head, nose, and face. The sinuses are air-filled cavities located in four main areas of the face: the frontal (forehead), ethmoid (between the eyes), maxillary (cheeks), and sphenoid (behind the eyes).

What causes sinus pressure? The most common culprits include:

• Seasonal allergies
• Common cold
• Sinus infections
• Environmental irritants
• Dry air

When these factors come into play, they can lead to mucus buildup, inflammation, and the uncomfortable sensation of pressure in the sinuses. While over-the-counter medications can provide relief, many people prefer natural remedies to alleviate their symptoms.

The Power of Steam in Sinus Relief

One of the most effective and accessible natural remedies for sinus pressure is steam. How does steam help relieve sinus congestion? Steam adds moisture to the air, which helps to:

• Moisten sinus passages
• Thin out mucus
• Reduce inflammation

There are several ways to harness the power of steam for sinus relief:

1. Take a hot shower and breathe in the steam
2. Use a humidifier in your living space
3. Create a steam tent by draping a towel over your head while leaning over a bowl of hot water

For an added boost, consider adding eucalyptus oil to your steam treatment. Eucalyptus contains cineole, a compound known to speed healing of acute sinusitis and reduce nasal stuffiness.

Saline Rinses: A Natural Flush for Your Sinuses

Saline rinses are another powerful tool in the fight against sinus pressure. These salt-water solutions help to:

• Increase moisture in the nasal passages
• Flush out allergens and irritants
• Thin mucus for easier drainage

How can you use saline rinses effectively? You have two main options:

1. Purchase pre-made saline sprays from your local drugstore
2. Create your own saline solution at home using distilled water, non-iodized salt, and baking soda

To make your own saline rinse, mix 1/4 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of baking soda in 8 ounces of warm distilled water. Use a neti pot or nasal spray bottle to gently flush your nasal passages with this solution.

The Importance of Rest and Elevation in Sinus Recovery

When dealing with sinus pressure, the body needs time to heal. Proper rest is crucial for recovery, as it allows the body to focus its energy on fighting infection and reducing inflammation. How does sleep help with sinus pressure?

• Stimulates the release of growth hormones
• Increases production of white blood cells
• Allows the body to repair damaged tissues

However, how you sleep is just as important as getting enough sleep. Elevating your head while sleeping can significantly reduce sinus pressure. Why is elevation beneficial?

• Prevents mucus buildup in nasal passages
• Improves drainage
• Reduces congestion and pressure

To achieve proper elevation, use an extra pillow or two to keep your head above your heart while sleeping. This position will help you breathe more comfortably and wake up with less sinus pressure.

Hydration: The Key to Thinning Mucus and Reducing Pressure

Proper hydration is essential for overall health, but it’s particularly crucial when dealing with sinus pressure. How does staying hydrated help alleviate sinus symptoms?

• Prevents drying out of sinus passages
• Thins mucus for easier drainage
• Supports the body’s natural healing processes

While water should be your primary source of hydration, you can also increase your fluid intake through:

• Herbal teas
• Broth-based soups
• Fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content
• Coconut water

Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day when dealing with sinus pressure. If you’re in a dry environment or experiencing fever, you may need to increase your intake even further.

Relaxation Techniques and Biofeedback for Sinus Relief

The tension caused by sinus pressure can lead to discomfort in the head, face, and neck. Relaxation techniques and biofeedback therapy can help alleviate this tension and provide relief. How do these methods work?

• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Promote better blood flow
• Help you gain control over bodily functions

Some effective relaxation techniques for sinus pressure include:

1. Deep breathing exercises
2. Progressive muscle relaxation
3. Guided imagery
4. Meditation
5. Yoga

Biofeedback therapy, in particular, has shown promising results in relieving sinus-related headaches. This alternative treatment method teaches you how to control certain bodily processes, such as muscle tension and heart rate, to reduce pain and discomfort.

The Surprising Benefits of Exercise for Sinus Pressure

While it may seem counterintuitive to exercise when you’re feeling under the weather, moderate physical activity can actually help alleviate sinus pressure. How does exercise benefit those with sinus congestion?

• Increases blood circulation
• Temporarily relieves congestion
• Boosts the immune system
• Promotes faster recovery

When dealing with sinus pressure, opt for low-impact exercises such as:

1. Brisk walking
2. Swimming
3. Gentle cycling
4. Yoga or stretching

Remember to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. If your symptoms worsen during exercise, take a break and consult with your healthcare provider.

Additional Natural Remedies for Sinus Relief

While the seven main remedies discussed above are highly effective, there are several other natural approaches you can try to alleviate sinus pressure:

• Essential oils: Peppermint, tea tree, and lavender oils have decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties
• Acupressure: Applying pressure to specific points on the face and head can help relieve sinus pain
• Nasal strips: These adhesive strips can help open nasal passages and improve breathing
• Warm compresses: Applying a warm, damp towel to your face can help reduce inflammation and promote drainage
• Spicy foods: Consuming spicy dishes can help clear nasal passages and thin mucus

When to Seek Medical Attention

While natural remedies can be highly effective for managing sinus pressure, there are instances when you should consult a healthcare professional. Seek medical attention if:

• Symptoms persist for more than a week
• You experience severe pain or headaches
• You develop a high fever
• Your symptoms worsen despite home treatment
• You notice changes in vision or swelling around the eyes

A healthcare provider can determine if your sinus pressure is caused by a more serious condition, such as a bacterial infection, and prescribe appropriate treatment if necessary.

Preventing Sinus Pressure: Proactive Measures

While knowing how to treat sinus pressure is important, taking steps to prevent it can save you from discomfort in the first place. Consider implementing these preventive measures:

• Use a humidifier in your home, especially during dry seasons
• Practice good hand hygiene to avoid catching colds and other infections
• Manage your allergies effectively with antihistamines or immunotherapy
• Avoid known irritants, such as smoke or strong perfumes
• Stay hydrated year-round
• Use a neti pot or saline spray regularly to keep nasal passages clear
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and foods high in vitamin C

The Role of Diet in Managing Sinus Pressure

Your diet can play a significant role in managing and preventing sinus pressure. Certain foods can help reduce inflammation and boost your immune system, while others may exacerbate your symptoms. Consider incorporating these sinus-friendly foods into your diet:

• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties
• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound
• Garlic: Has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties
• Citrus fruits: Rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function
• Pineapple: Contains bromelain, an enzyme that can reduce sinus inflammation
• Fatty fish: High in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory effects

On the other hand, you may want to limit or avoid these foods when dealing with sinus pressure:

• Dairy products: Can increase mucus production in some people
• Refined sugar: May promote inflammation in the body
• Alcohol: Can lead to dehydration and worsen sinus symptoms
• Caffeine: May cause dehydration if consumed in excess

The Connection Between Stress and Sinus Pressure

Stress can have a significant impact on your overall health, including your sinus health. When you’re stressed, your body’s immune system can become compromised, making you more susceptible to infections and inflammation. Additionally, stress can cause tension in the muscles of your face and neck, potentially exacerbating sinus pressure symptoms.

To manage stress and potentially reduce sinus pressure, consider incorporating these stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine:

• Practice mindfulness meditation
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
• Try journaling or expressive writing
• Spend time in nature
• Connect with friends and loved ones
• Consider professional counseling or therapy if stress becomes overwhelming

The Impact of Environmental Factors on Sinus Health

Your environment can play a crucial role in the development and persistence of sinus pressure. Understanding and managing these environmental factors can help you prevent and alleviate sinus symptoms. Consider the following environmental influences:

• Air quality: Poor air quality, pollution, and airborne irritants can trigger sinus inflammation
• Humidity levels: Both very dry and very humid environments can affect sinus health
• Temperature changes: Rapid temperature fluctuations can irritate the sinuses
• Seasonal changes: Pollen and other allergens vary with the seasons
• Indoor air: Dust, pet dander, and mold can accumulate in homes and workplaces

To improve your environmental conditions:

1. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home and office
2. Regularly clean and replace air filters in your HVAC system
3. Keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50%
4. Use allergy-proof bedding and regularly wash bedding in hot water
5. Vacuum frequently, especially if you have carpets or pets
6. Consider wearing a mask when outdoors during high-pollen days

The Future of Sinus Pressure Treatment

As research in the field of sinus health continues to advance, new treatments and technologies are emerging. While natural remedies remain effective for many people, it’s worth keeping an eye on these developing approaches:

• Photobiomodulation therapy: Using low-level laser therapy to reduce inflammation in the sinuses
• Targeted probiotic therapies: Developing specific probiotic strains to support sinus health
• Advanced nasal sprays: Incorporating new compounds for more effective symptom relief
• Immunotherapy advancements: Improving treatments for allergy-related sinus issues
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques: Developing less intrusive methods for treating chronic sinus conditions

While these treatments are still in various stages of research and development, they offer hope for more effective sinus pressure management in the future. Always consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments or therapies.

How to Relieve Sinus Pressure: 7 Natural Home Remedies

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You can relieve sinus pressure with the help of natural remedies like a humidifier, saline washes, and biofeedback. Seek medical attention if your symptoms do not improve after 1 week.

Many people experience sinus pressure from seasonal allergies or the common cold. Sinus pressure results from blocked nasal passages. When your sinuses cannot drain, you may experience inflammation and pain in your head, nose, and face.

Your sinuses are paired in two, and are found in four main areas of the face:

• frontal, in your forehead
• ethmoid, between your eyes and across your nose
• maxillary, in your cheeks
• sphenoid, behind your eyes and along the back of your head

While some over-the-counter treatments can help reduce symptoms, there are also many effective natural remedies.

1. Steam

Dry air and dry sinuses can increase sinus pressure and cause headaches and throbbing pain. Steam adds moisture to the air, helps to moisten your sinus passages, and thins out mucus that may have thickened over time.

Take a hot shower and breathe in the steam to reduce pressure. You can also use a humidifier for more long-term relief.

Buy a humidifier now.

For an extra boost, add eucalyptus oil to your bath to speed your recovery. Eucalyptus contains cineole, an ingredient known to speed healing of acute sinusitis. The oil also may help to reduce nasal stuffiness and clear your pathways.

2. Saline flush

A common treatment for sinus pressure and congestion is a saline wash. Saline spray contains salt that helps to increase moisture in your nose and reduce sinus pressure. You can buy saline spray in drugstores, or you can make your own with baking soda, distilled water, and iodine-free salt.

3. Resting

A good night’s sleep can help the body to heal. Sleep stimulates your brain to release hormones that encourage tissue growth. Also when you’re at rest, your body is able to produce more white blood cells essential for attacking viruses and other bacteria.

Try to avoid activities or beverages that are over-stimulating before bed. Allowing your body to rest can help to reduce sinus pressure, speed your recovery time, and leave you feeling more refreshed. Check out some natural sleep aids if you need some added help.

4. Elevation

Just as sleep is essential for healing, how you sleep can alleviate sinus symptoms. Lying flat can increase mucus buildup in your nasal passages, increase your sinus pressure, and disrupt your sleep cycle.

Prop your head up with pillows at night to keep your head above your heart. This sleeping position will prevent sinus buildup and can help you to breathe more comfortably.

5. Hydration

Dehydration can contribute to your sinus passages drying out and increased pressure in your face. Increase your water intake throughout the day if you’re feeling under the weather. Fluids will reduce blockages in your sinuses.

While water may be your first choice to remain hydrated, you can also retain fluids through other foods and beverages including:

• broth soups
• ice cubes
• tea
• water-based vegetables and fruits

6.

Relaxation techniques

Your sinus pressure may cause you to feel tension in your head, face, and neck. Biofeedback therapy, an alternative treatment method that teaches you how to control your bodily functions, can relieve this pressure.

This method has had proven success in relieving headaches, incorporating deep breathing exercises and meditation to achieve relaxation and reduce pain. Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help to reduce pain and pressure from sinus infections.

7. Exercise

Similar to yoga, exercise can reduce sinus pressure. Physical activity can increase blood circulation and temporarily relieve congestion to ease breathing. Although uncomfortable to perform while being sick, physical activity can help to improve your recovery time and speed healing.

Sinus pressure symptoms can be painful and uncomfortable. In addition to using traditional treatment methods like decongestants and pain relievers, alternative home remedies can also boost your recovery.

If you continue to experience sinus pressure symptoms after a week, or if they begin to worsen, seek medical attention. This could be a sign of a more serious infection that may require prescribed antibiotics.

Sinus headache Information | Mount Sinai

Headache – sinus

Signs and Symptoms

Sinus headaches typically have the following symptoms:

• Pressure-like pain in one specific area of your face or head (for example, behind your eyes)
• Face is tender to the touch
• Pain is worse with sudden movements of the head and bending forward
• Pain is worse in the morning because mucus collects and drains through the night
• Sudden temperature changes, like going out into the cold from a warm room, worsen the pain
• Headache often starts when you have a bad cold or just after
• Congested or runny nose

Other symptoms may be related to sinus inflammation (sinusitis):

• Fever
• Postnasal drip with sore throat (pharyngitis)
• Yellow or green discharge from your nose
• Red and swollen nasal passages (nasal congestion)
• Mild-to-moderate fever
• A sense of not feeling well
• Fatigue
• Pain in upper teeth

Migraines may feel worse when you bend forward and can be accompanied by nasal congestion. But a migraine is more likely to be made worse by noise or light, and to be accompanied by nausea.

Causes

Sinus headaches can be caused by sinus congestion and inflammation, called sinusitis. Sinusitis, in turn, is caused by either a respiratory infection, such as a cold or flu, or allergies, like hay fever.

Healthy sinuses allow mucus to drain and air to circulate throughout the nasal passages. When sinuses become inflamed, these areas get blocked and mucus cannot drain. When sinuses are blocked, they provide a place for bacteria, viruses, and fungus to live and grow rapidly. Although a cold is the most common culprit, sinusitis can be caused by anything that prevents the sinuses from draining.

Risk Factors

• History of allergies, especially hay fever, or asthma
• Nasal polyps or swellings in the nasal passage, nasal bone spurs, nasal or facial tumor, deviated septum, or cleft palate
• Climbing or flying to high altitudes
• Frequent swimming or diving

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask questions to distinguish sinus headaches from migraines or tension headaches. If you have had a recent cold, allergy flare up, or symptoms of sinusitis, it will help your doctor make a diagnosis.

Your doctor will look in your nose to check for congestion and nasal discharge. Your doctor will also press on areas of your face to check for tenderness. Your doctor may shine a light through the sinuses to look for sinus inflammation; if the light does not shine through, your sinuses may be congested.

If your doctor suspects chronic sinusitis, you may need imaging tests, including an x-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If your doctor suspects allergies may be causing your sinusitis, you may need an allergy test. Your doctor may also refer you to a specialist, known as an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor, or an otolaryngologist. This specialist may perform a nasal endoscopy using a fiber optic scope to look at your sinuses.

Treatment Approach

The best way to avoid or get rid of a sinus headache is to treat the underlying sinus inflammation. Sinus pain caused by allergies may be helped by allergy medications and medicated nasal sprays. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or corticosteroids. Lifestyle changes, such as using a humidifier or irrigating your nasal passages with salt water, may also help. Several dietary supplements and herbs may help prevent colds and flu, shorten their duration, or work together with antibiotics to treat your infection and support your immune system. Flushing the nose and sinuses with saline solution may also help.

Lifestyle

Doing the following things can help reduce congestion in your sinuses:

• Using a humidifier
• Using a saline nasal spray
• Breathing in steam 2 to 4 times per day (for example, sitting in the bathroom with the shower running)
• Quickly treating allergic and asthma attacks

Other techniques that might help include:

• Stretches for the head and neck
• Relaxation techniques (see Mind-Body Medicine section)

Medications

Antibiotics. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if they suspects you have a bacterial infection. To treat acute sinusitis, you may take from 10 to 14 days of antibiotics. Treating chronic sinusitis may take longer, usually 3 to 4 weeks.

Nasal corticosteroids. These prescription sprays reduce inflammation of the nose and help relieve sneezing, itching, and runny nose. They are most effective at reducing symptoms, although it can take anywhere from a few days to a week after you start using them to see improvement.

• Beclomethasone (Beconase)
• Fluticasone (Flonase)
• Mometasone (Nasonex)
• Triamcinolone (Nasacort)

Antihistamines. Antihistamines are available in both oral and nasal spray forms, and as prescription drugs and over-the-counter remedies, to treat allergies. Over-the-counter antihistamines are short acting and can relieve mild-to-moderate symptoms. All work by blocking the release of histamine in your body.

• Over-the-counter antihistamines: Include diphenhydramine (Benadryl), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), and clemastine (Tavist). These older antihistamines can cause sleepiness. Fexofenadine (Allegra), cetinzine (Zyrtec), and loratadine (Claritin) are newer antihistamines that do not cause as much drowsiness.

Decongestants. Many over-the-counter and prescription decongestants are available in tablet or nasal spray form. They are often used in combination with antihistamines.

• Oral and nasal decongestants: Include Sudafed, Actifed, Afrin, and Neo-Synephrine. Some decongestants may contain pseudoephedrine, which can raise blood pressure. People with high blood pressure or enlarged prostate should not take drugs containing pseudoephedrine. Avoid using nasal decongestants for more than 3 days in a row, unless specifically instructed by your doctor, because they can cause rebound congestion. Do not use them if you have emphysema or chronic bronchitis.

Triptans. In one study, 82% of people with sinus headaches had a significant response to triptans, a medication commonly used for migraines.

Surgery and Other Procedures

For chronic sinusitis that does not respond to medication, your doctor may recommend endoscopic sinus surgery, which may be done to remove polyps or bone spurs. Some doctors also recommend enlarging the sinus opening. A newer procedure called balloon rhinoplasty involves inserting a balloon inside the sinus cavity and then inflating it.

Sinus surgeries are done by an ENT specialist.

Nutrition and Dietary Supplements

Several supplements may help prevent or treat sinus headaches, either by reducing sinus inflammation, or by helping to ward off colds. (See Sinusitis for more details.) Because supplements may have side effects, or interact with medications, you should take them only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider.

• Bromelain. Several studies suggest that bromelain, an enzyme derived from pineapples, may help reduce inflammation and swelling and relieve symptoms of sinusitis. However, not all studies agree. Bromelain is often combined with quercetin, a flavonoid or plant pigment responsible for the colors found in fruits and vegetables, which may act as an antihistamine. Bromelain may increase the risk of bleeding, so people who take blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidogrel (Plavix) should not take bromelain without talking to their doctor first. Taking bromelain with ACE inhibitors may cause a drop in blood pressure, called hypotension. Bromelain may interact with certain antibiotics as well. Speak with your doctor.
• Quercetin. In test tubes, quercetin stops the production and release of histamine, which causes allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose and watery eyes. It is often combined with bromelain. However, there is not yet much evidence that quercetin would work the same way in humans. More studies are needed. Some people may prefer water-soluble forms of quercetin, such as hesperidin methyl chalcone (HMC) or quercetin chalcone. Quercetin may interact with certain medications, so ask your doctor before taking it.
• Probiotics (Lactobacillus). Probiotics, or “friendly” bacteria, may help if you are taking antibiotics for sinusitis. They may also reduce your chances of developing allergies. People who have very weakened immune systems or who take drugs to suppress the immune system should ask their doctor before taking probiotics.

Herbs

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs with care, under the supervision of a health care practitioner.

As with supplements, there are many herbs that may help reduce your chances of getting a sinus headache by preventing or treating a cold, boosting your immune system, or reducing sinus inflammation.

Sinupret, a proprietary formulation containing European elder (Sambucus nigra), common sorrel (Rumex acetosa), cowslip (Primula veris), European vervain (Verbena officinalis), and gentian (Gentiana lutea). In two studies, Sinupret was found to work better than placebo in relieving symptoms of sinusitis. The herbs it contains may work by thinning mucus and helping the sinuses drain, and they may also help strengthen the immune system.

Although research is lacking, other herbs have been used traditionally to treat headaches:

• Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis)
• Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)
• Willow bark (Salix spp.)

People who take blood thinners, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should not take these herbs. People who are allergic to aspirin should not take willow bark. Feverfew can interact with several medications. If you are allergic to ragweed you may also be allergic to feverfew.

Homeopathy

One of the most common reasons people seek homeopathic care is to relieve chronic headaches. Few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic remedies. Professional homeopaths, however, may recommend treatments for sinus headaches based on their knowledge and clinical experience. In one study of homeopathy for sinusitis, more than 80% of the participants had significant improvement in their symptoms after taking the homeopathic remedy for 2 weeks.

Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person’s constitutional type. In homeopathic terms, a person’s constitution is his or her physical, emotional, and intellectual makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate remedy for a particular individual.

The following are remedies commonly prescribed for sinus congestion and headache:

• Arsenicum album. For throbbing, burning sinus pain that is relieved by lying upright in a cool room with open windows.
• Belladonna. For throbbing headaches that come on suddenly and feel worse with motion and light; pain is partially relieved by pressure, standing, sitting, or leaning backwards.
• Bryonia. For headaches with a steady, sharp pain that occurs most often in the forehead but may radiate to the back of the head; symptoms tend to worsen with movement and light touch, but firm pressure alleviates the pain; the person for whom this remedy is most appropriate is usually irritable and may experience nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
• Hepar sulphuricum. For headaches described as “a nail being driven between the eyes,” these types of headaches are often accompanied by thick, yellow nasal discharge; symptoms tend to worsen with movement and light touch of the scalp and improve with pressure.
• Iris versicolor. For throbbing headaches that occur on one side of the head, especially after eating sweets; visual disturbances may also occur; these headaches are worse in the early morning, during spring and fall, and symptoms tend to worsen with vomiting.
• Kali bichromicum. For sinus headaches and congestion; pain often occurs between and behind the eyes; symptoms typically progress throughout the morning, worsen with cold and motion, and improve with warmth and pressure.
• Mercurius. For raw, swollen nostrils; this remedy is most appropriate for individuals whose pain feels as though the head has been placed in a vise; pain may also extend to the teeth; symptoms tend to worsen at night and the individual may alternate between sweating and having the chills; nasal discharge may be bloody.
• Natrum muriaticum. For headaches and congestion associated with allergies.
• Pulsatilla. For headaches triggered by eating rich, fatty foods, particularly ice cream; pain may move around the head but tends to be concentrated in the forehead or on one side of the head and may be accompanied by digestive problems or occur around the time of menstruation; symptoms tend to worsen at night and with coughing and blowing the nose; children often develop these symptoms while at school.
• Silicea. For sinus pain that improves with pressure, head wraps, and warm compresses.
• Spigelia. For stinging, burning, or throbbing sinus pain that often occurs on the left side of the head; symptoms tend to worsen with cold weather and motion but may be temporarily relieved by cold compresses and lying on the right side with the head propped up.

Acupuncture

Although studies are few and have found conflicting results, some people may find that acupuncture helps relieve symptoms of sinusitis. An acupuncturist diagnosis headaches not as migraine, tension, or sinus, but rather as conditions deriving from “energetic” imbalances. Acupuncturists usually describe sinusitis as “dampness” which creates inflammation and congestion in the mucus membranes. This dampness is cleared by strengthening the spleen meridian and by working with the stomach meridian. Practitioners often perform needling therapy and/or moxibustion, a technique in which the herb mugwort is burned over specific acupuncture points, for this condition.

Chiropractic

Although there are no studies on using chiropractic to treat sinus headaches, some practitioners suggest that it may decrease pain and improve sinus drainage for some people.

Mind-Body Medicine

For headaches in general, relaxation techniques can be helpful. This is especially true for frequent headaches, such as sinus headaches. You may want to try these techniques:

• Biofeedback to control muscle tension
• Learn to meditate, breathe deeply, or try other relaxation exercises, such as yoga or hypnotherapy
• Try guided imagery techniques

Other Considerations

If you are not better in a few weeks, your primary care physician may send you to see an ear, nose, and throat specialist for tests to find the cause of your sinus congestion.

Pregnancy

Sinus congestion often acts up during pregnancy. There are many herbs and medications that pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use. Check with your doctor before using any herbs or supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Warnings and Precautions

You should go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience the following:

• Sudden and severe headache that persists or increases in intensity over 24 hours
• A sudden, severe headache that you describe as “your worst ever,” even if you are prone to headaches
• Chronic or severe headaches that begin after age 50
• Headaches accompanied by memory loss, confusion, loss of balance, change in speech or vision, or loss of strength in, or numbness or tingling, in any one of your limbs
• Headaches accompanied by fever, stiff neck, nausea, and vomiting (may indicate meningitis)
• Severe headache in one eye accompanied by redness of the eye (may indicate acute glaucoma)

Supporting Research

Annequin D, Tourniaire B, Massiou H. Migraine and headache in childhood and adolescence. Pediatr Clin North Am. 2000;47(3):617-31.

Aring AM, Chan MM. Acute rhinosinusitis in adults. Am Fam Physician. 2011 May 1;83(9):1057-63.

Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckmann J. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications; 2000:240-3.

Cady RK, Schreiber CP. Sinus headache or migraine? Considerations in making a differential diagnosis. Neurology. 2002;58(9 Suppl 6):S10-S14.

Foroughipour M, Sharifian SM, Shoeibi A, Ehdali Barabad N, Bakhshaee M. Causes of headache in patients with a primary diagnosis of sinus headache. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2011;268(11):1593-6.

Friese KH, Zabalotnyi DI. Homeopathy in acute rhinosinusitis: a double-blind, placebo controlled study shows the efficiency and tolerability of a homeopathic combination remedy. HNO. 2007;55(4):271-7.

Guo R, Canter PH, Ernst E. Herbal medicines for the treatment of rhinosinusitis: a systematic review. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2006;135(4):496-506.

Harvey R, Hannan SA, Badia L, Scadding G. Nasal saline irrigations for the symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007;(3):CD006394.

Helms S, Miller A. Natural treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis. Altern Med Rev. 2006;11(3):196-207.

Kaya A, Caliskan H. Does wet hair in cold weather cause sinus headache and posterior eye pain? A possible mechanism through selective brain cooling system. Med Hypotheses. 2012;79(6):744-5.

Kari E, DelGaudio JM. Treatment of sinus headache as migraine: the diagnostic utility of triptans. Laryngoscope. 2008;118(12):2235-9.

Karkos PD, Leong SC, Arya AK, Papouliakos SM, Apostolidou MT, Issing WJ. ‘Complementary ENT’: a systematic review of commonly used supplements. J Laryngol Otol. 2007;121(8):779-82.

Marmura MJ, Silverstein SD. Headaches caused by nasal and paranasal sinus disease. Neurol Clin. 2014; 32(2):507-23.

Mauskop A. Alternative therapies in headache. Is there a role? Med Clin North Am. 2001;85(4):1077-84.

Mehle ME, Kremer PS. Sinus CT scan findings in “sinus headache” migraineurs. Headache. 2008;48(1):67-71.

Melzer J, Saller R, Schapowal A, Brignoli R. Systematic review of clinical data with BNO-101 (Sinupret) in the treatment of sinusitis. Forsch Komplement Med. 2006;13(2):78-87.

Pain in the head when bending over

Headache is unusually common. 90% of people have had at least one headache in their lifetime. In fact, it turns out that approximately 60% of the entire male population and 75% of the female population experienced at least one attack of headaches in the last month.

The most common cause of headache when bending over is sinusitis (also called sinusitis). With this disease, the head hurts in the eye sockets, cheekbones, cheeks, teeth may ache

Causes of pain in the head when bending over

Pain in the head when bending over is the first symptom of sinusitis. Characterized by headache – aggravated by tilting the head down, especially in the morning after waking up, localized in the superciliary region. There is difficulty in nasal breathing, more often bilateral, swelling of the skin in the area of ​​the cheek or eyelid on the affected side, if you gently press your finger on the points at the inner corner of the eye and in the middle of the cheek.

Acute sinusitis does not always begin with pain in the face. Difficulty breathing in one half of the nose may disturb, from which a purulent discharge with an unpleasant odor is released. In addition, there may be pain in the area of ​​​​the teeth of the upper jaw. For help in such cases, you should contact otorhinolaryngologist.

If you have a headache when bending over, you need to find out the true cause of the headache. One recent study found that out of 100 people who thought they had sinus headaches, almost 90% actually suffered from headaches due to 90,003 migraines.

Migraine headaches can also get worse when you lean forward and they can also be accompanied by nasal congestion . But migraine headaches are more likely to be aggravated by noise or light and may be accompanied by nausea.

Headache due to sinusitis often worries a woman during pregnancy. There are many herbs and medicines that pregnant and lactating women should not use. Check with your doctor before using herbs or supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Bent over headache diagnosis

Your doctor will ask questions to distinguish sinus headache from migraine and tension headaches. If you have recently had a cold, allergy or symptoms of sinusitis, talking about it will help your doctor make a definitive diagnosis.

The ENT specialist will usually carefully examine the nose to check for sinus congestion and discharge. The doctor also presses on different areas of your face to test them for tenderness. The doctor can use lighting sinuses Check them for inflammation, and if no light shines through them, your sinuses may be congested with mucus.

If your doctor suspects that you have chronic sinusitis you may need to be tested:

If your doctor suspects an allergy that may be causing sinusitis , you may need to test for an allergy. You may need an additional referral to a specialist known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor or otolaryngologist. This specialist can perform a nasal endoscopy using a fiber optic scope to clearly view the condition of the sinuses.

Bent over headache treatment

The best way to get rid of sinus headache that occurs when you tilt your head is to treat inflamed sinuses. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or corticosteroids.

Lifestyle changes are also needed, such as using a humidifier or irrigating the nasal passages with salt water. Some supplements and herbs can help prevent or shorten colds and flu. They can act on sinusitis in combination with antibiotics to treat infection and support the immune system. These treatments will help reduce sinus congestion and relieve headaches:

• using a humidifier.

• use of saline nasal spray.

• breathe over steam or in a steam room 2 to 4 times a day (for example, while sitting in a bathtub with a hot shower).

• treatment of allergic asthma attacks.

• other methods that may help headaches include.

• massage of painful areas of the head and neck.

• relaxation techniques.

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if he suspects you have a bacterial infection. For the treatment of acute sinusitis, you can go through course of treatment with antibiotics for 1-14 days. Treatment of chronic sinusitis may take longer, usually 3-4 weeks.

Some supplements may help prevent or treat headaches due to sinus congestion, or by reducing sinus inflammation . They can also help protect against colds. Because supplements can have side effects and interact with other medications, you should only take them under the supervision of a knowledgeable physician.

Probiotics, or “friendly” bacteria, may help if you are taking antibiotics for sinusitis. They may also reduce the chance of developing allergies. People who have weakened immune systems or who are taking drugs to suppress the immune system should ask their doctor before taking probiotics.

Therapist named products that provoke a severe headache

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20. 01.2022 20:01

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In most cases, a headache is not dangerous, but brings a lot of inconvenience and discomfort. What types of pain are encountered, whether they can be avoided and how best to stop, said Oksana Drapkina, director of the National Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

Drapkina named the most common types of pain.

1) So, tension headache occurs with emotional stress, lack of sleep, overstrain. It is a constant, dull, bilateral pain. It is often compared in sensations to a vise squeezing the head or a tight bandage tightening.

“In most cases, ordinary painkillers – paracetamol or ibuprofen (do not forget about the recommended dose!) – advises Oksana Drapkina, noting that it is necessary to avoid pain-provoking factors – this is the main way to avoid this type of headache .

2) Migraine is a severe throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. The attack often begins unexpectedly. The pain can be so severe that it is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. “Women suffer from migraines three times more often than men. Certain foods (aged cheeses, wine, chocolate, deli meats), bright lights, loud sounds can provoke an attack. For migraines, paracetamol or ibuprofen is used, if they are ineffective, drugs from the triptan group However, all triptans are taken strictly by prescription,” says Oksana Drapkina.

3) Cluster headaches are extremely severe pains on one side of the head. “The attack is accompanied by drooping of the eyelid, redness of the eye, swelling of the face. The treatment is carried out similarly to a migraine,” the specialist advises.

4) Sinus headache is associated with inflammatory diseases of the nasal mucosa – sinusitis, sinusitis, frontal sinusitis. Depending on the location of the inflammation, dull pain, sensations of heaviness and pressure are felt in the cheeks, wings of the nose, eyebrows or forehead.