The 10 best medications for sinus pressure

Sinus pressure can occur when illness, injury, or allergies cause tissue swelling inside the nasal passages. Decongestants, antihistamines, and other medications can help relieve it.

The best medication for sinus pressure will depend on several factors, including the cause of the problem and a person’s circumstances.

This article looks at some of the most suitable medications for sinus pressure.

The sinuses are hollow spaces in the bones that surround the nose. They produce mucus to keep the nostrils clean and lubricated.

If an infection, allergy, or injury causes the tissue inside the nose to swell up, this can block the sinuses and lead to sinus pressure. A person may feel pressure or pain in their:

• eyes
• cheeks
• forehead

People may also experience a stuffy or runny nose or a headache.

Common causes of sinus pressure include:

• infections, including flu and the common cold
• allergies, including hay fever
• injury
• migraine

Decongestants narrow the blood vessels in the nose. This allows the swollen tissue to shrink and enables air to pass through the sinuses more easily.

Pill and spray decongestants are available. Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine products are only suitable for adults and children over 4 years of age.

When taking over-the-counter (OTC) decongestants, it is important to follow the advice on the label. Additionally, people should not use more than one decongestant at once.

Sometimes, decongestants can interfere with prescription medicines. Anyone already taking prescription medication or who has one of the following medical conditions should also speak with their doctor before taking a decongestant:

• diabetes
• glaucoma
• a heart condition
• high blood pressure
• prostate issues
• thyroid issues

The possible side effects of decongestants include:

• nervousness
• dizziness
• sleeping problems
• high blood pressure
• heart palpitations

Examples of decongestants include the following.

1. Naphazoline

Naphazoline is usually an eye drop product. People can use it if they have a cold, allergy, or eye irritation. Privine is a type of naphazoline.

2. Oxymetazoline

Oxymetazoline is a nasal spray. People can use it to relieve sinus pressure if they have a cold or allergies, including hay fever.

Afrin, Dristan, Nostrilla, and Vicks Sinus Nasal Spray are all types of oxymetazoline.

3. Phenylephrine

Phenylephrine can ease stuffiness and sinus pressure and is available as a pill or a nasal spray.

Neo-Synephrine, Sinex, Rhinall, and the pill form of Sudafed-PE all contain phenylephrine.

4. Pseudoephedrine

People with colds or allergies can use pseudoephedrine to ease sinus pressure. This medication comes in tablet or liquid form. Sudafed 12-hour tablets contain pseudoephedrine.

People can take antihistamines to treat allergies. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a substance that is not harmful and releases chemicals that doctors call histamines. For example, people may be allergic to pet dander, pollen, or dust.

Antihistamines block the effects of histamine and ease allergy symptoms, which can include sinus pressure.

The possible side effects of these medicines include:

• vision changes, such as blurry vision
• dry mouth
• loss of appetite
• feeling dizzy
• feeling drowsy
• feeling nervous, irritable, or excitable

People should speak with a doctor before taking antihistamines if they are pregnant or have the following health conditions:

• diabetes
• epilepsy
• heart disease
• high blood pressure
• overactive thyroid
• glaucoma

Different types of antihistamines are available from drug stores or on prescription from a doctor. Some last between 4 and 6 hours, while others can last for 12–24 hours.

However, driving or operating heavy machinery after taking some types of antihistamines may not be safe. People should always follow the instructions on the packet.

Common types of antihistamines include the following.

5. Azelastine nasal sprays

Azelastine nasal spray is only available on prescription. Doctors may call it Astepro or Astelin.

Adults and children over the age of 6 years can use this medication. Azelastine has a half life — the time it takes for the amount of a drug’s active substance to reduce by half in the body — of around 20 hours.

6. Loratadine

Loratadine comes as a liquid or a tablet and is available over the counter. Claritin is its brand name.

Adults and children over the age of 2 years can use it. However, it is unsuitable for children who weigh less than 30 kilograms. People tend to use this medication just once a day.

OTC pain medication can also help ease the discomfort of sinus pressure.

Different medicines work in different ways and have different risks and side effects. People should always follow the instructions on the label.

Examples of OTC pain medications include the following.

7. Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen changes the way the body senses pain. It is available as a tablet or liquid.

People should always follow the instructions on the packet and only take one product containing acetaminophen at a time. This is because taking too much can cause liver damage. Additionally, anyone who is allergic to acetaminophen should not take it.

Possible serious side effects of acetaminophen include:

• a rash
• hives
• itching
• swelling in the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• red, irritated, or peeling skin
• difficulty breathing or swallowing

Anyone who experiences any of these side effects should seek emergency medical attention.

8. Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing swelling, which can help ease sinus pressure.

Anyone who is allergic to ibuprofen should not take this medication. Additionally, some people who are allergic to aspirin are also allergic to ibuprofen.

In some individuals, ibuprofen can cause bleeding in the gut. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), people who are most at risk are:

• those aged 60 years or over
• those who have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems in the past
• anyone who is also taking a blood thinning or steroid drug
• anyone who is also taking another NSAID, such as aspirin or naproxen
• anyone who has three or more alcoholic drinks daily while also taking ibuprofen
• people who take ibuprofen for longer periods

Other medications that may help ease sinus pressure include the following.

9. Steroids

Steroid nasal sprays can ease the swelling that leads to sinus pressure. They are available over the counter and on prescription from a doctor.

They are generally safe, but as with all medicines, they can pose risks. For example, some people may get nose bleeds. In rare cases, steroid nasals sprays can cause eye problems, such as glaucoma and cataracts.

10. Antibiotics

Bacterial infections can sometimes cause sinus pressure. When this is the case, antibiotics will clear the underlying infection.

These medications are only available from a doctor, who will usually recommend taking them for between 3 and 28 days.

Common side effects include:

• nausea or vomiting
• diarrhea
• bloating
• indigestion
• loss of appetite
• stomach pain

Other treatments for sinus pressure include:

• Inhaling steam: Inhaling the steam from a bowl of hot water or a warm shower can help ease the symptoms of sinus pressure.
• Warming compress: A person can try placing a warm compress over the nose and forehead.
• Drinking lots of fluids: It is always important to stay hydrated when experiencing illness.
• Using a saline nasal spray: According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, rinsing the nose with a saline spray can help clear the nasal passages.

Sinus pressure can feel like a pain or tightness around the eyes, nose, and forehead. It is usually a symptom of an infection, allergy, or injury.

There are many medicines for sinus pressure, including decongestants and antihistamines. The right one depends on several factors, including the cause of the problem.

The 10 best medications for sinus pressure

Sinus pressure can occur when illness, injury, or allergies cause tissue swelling inside the nasal passages. Decongestants, antihistamines, and other medications can help relieve it.

The best medication for sinus pressure will depend on several factors, including the cause of the problem and a person’s circumstances.

This article looks at some of the most suitable medications for sinus pressure.

The sinuses are hollow spaces in the bones that surround the nose. They produce mucus to keep the nostrils clean and lubricated.

If an infection, allergy, or injury causes the tissue inside the nose to swell up, this can block the sinuses and lead to sinus pressure. A person may feel pressure or pain in their:

• eyes
• cheeks
• forehead

People may also experience a stuffy or runny nose or a headache.

Common causes of sinus pressure include:

• infections, including flu and the common cold
• allergies, including hay fever
• injury
• migraine

Decongestants narrow the blood vessels in the nose. This allows the swollen tissue to shrink and enables air to pass through the sinuses more easily.

Pill and spray decongestants are available. Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine products are only suitable for adults and children over 4 years of age.

When taking over-the-counter (OTC) decongestants, it is important to follow the advice on the label. Additionally, people should not use more than one decongestant at once.

Sometimes, decongestants can interfere with prescription medicines. Anyone already taking prescription medication or who has one of the following medical conditions should also speak with their doctor before taking a decongestant:

• diabetes
• glaucoma
• a heart condition
• high blood pressure
• prostate issues
• thyroid issues

The possible side effects of decongestants include:

• nervousness
• dizziness
• sleeping problems
• high blood pressure
• heart palpitations

Examples of decongestants include the following.

1. Naphazoline

Naphazoline is usually an eye drop product. People can use it if they have a cold, allergy, or eye irritation. Privine is a type of naphazoline.

2. Oxymetazoline

Oxymetazoline is a nasal spray. People can use it to relieve sinus pressure if they have a cold or allergies, including hay fever.

Afrin, Dristan, Nostrilla, and Vicks Sinus Nasal Spray are all types of oxymetazoline.

3. Phenylephrine

Phenylephrine can ease stuffiness and sinus pressure and is available as a pill or a nasal spray.

Neo-Synephrine, Sinex, Rhinall, and the pill form of Sudafed-PE all contain phenylephrine.

4. Pseudoephedrine

People with colds or allergies can use pseudoephedrine to ease sinus pressure. This medication comes in tablet or liquid form. Sudafed 12-hour tablets contain pseudoephedrine.

People can take antihistamines to treat allergies. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a substance that is not harmful and releases chemicals that doctors call histamines. For example, people may be allergic to pet dander, pollen, or dust.

Antihistamines block the effects of histamine and ease allergy symptoms, which can include sinus pressure.

The possible side effects of these medicines include:

• vision changes, such as blurry vision
• dry mouth
• loss of appetite
• feeling dizzy
• feeling drowsy
• feeling nervous, irritable, or excitable

People should speak with a doctor before taking antihistamines if they are pregnant or have the following health conditions:

• diabetes
• epilepsy
• heart disease
• high blood pressure
• overactive thyroid
• glaucoma

Different types of antihistamines are available from drug stores or on prescription from a doctor. Some last between 4 and 6 hours, while others can last for 12–24 hours.

However, driving or operating heavy machinery after taking some types of antihistamines may not be safe. People should always follow the instructions on the packet.

Common types of antihistamines include the following.

5. Azelastine nasal sprays

Azelastine nasal spray is only available on prescription. Doctors may call it Astepro or Astelin.

Adults and children over the age of 6 years can use this medication. Azelastine has a half life — the time it takes for the amount of a drug’s active substance to reduce by half in the body — of around 20 hours.

6. Loratadine

Loratadine comes as a liquid or a tablet and is available over the counter. Claritin is its brand name.

Adults and children over the age of 2 years can use it. However, it is unsuitable for children who weigh less than 30 kilograms. People tend to use this medication just once a day.

OTC pain medication can also help ease the discomfort of sinus pressure.

Different medicines work in different ways and have different risks and side effects. People should always follow the instructions on the label.

Examples of OTC pain medications include the following.

7. Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen changes the way the body senses pain. It is available as a tablet or liquid.

People should always follow the instructions on the packet and only take one product containing acetaminophen at a time. This is because taking too much can cause liver damage. Additionally, anyone who is allergic to acetaminophen should not take it.

Possible serious side effects of acetaminophen include:

• a rash
• hives
• itching
• swelling in the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• red, irritated, or peeling skin
• difficulty breathing or swallowing

Anyone who experiences any of these side effects should seek emergency medical attention.

8. Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing swelling, which can help ease sinus pressure.

Anyone who is allergic to ibuprofen should not take this medication. Additionally, some people who are allergic to aspirin are also allergic to ibuprofen.

In some individuals, ibuprofen can cause bleeding in the gut. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), people who are most at risk are:

• those aged 60 years or over
• those who have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems in the past
• anyone who is also taking a blood thinning or steroid drug
• anyone who is also taking another NSAID, such as aspirin or naproxen
• anyone who has three or more alcoholic drinks daily while also taking ibuprofen
• people who take ibuprofen for longer periods

Other medications that may help ease sinus pressure include the following.

9. Steroids

Steroid nasal sprays can ease the swelling that leads to sinus pressure. They are available over the counter and on prescription from a doctor.

They are generally safe, but as with all medicines, they can pose risks. For example, some people may get nose bleeds. In rare cases, steroid nasals sprays can cause eye problems, such as glaucoma and cataracts.

10. Antibiotics

Bacterial infections can sometimes cause sinus pressure. When this is the case, antibiotics will clear the underlying infection.

These medications are only available from a doctor, who will usually recommend taking them for between 3 and 28 days.

Common side effects include:

• nausea or vomiting
• diarrhea
• bloating
• indigestion
• loss of appetite
• stomach pain

Other treatments for sinus pressure include:

• Inhaling steam: Inhaling the steam from a bowl of hot water or a warm shower can help ease the symptoms of sinus pressure.
• Warming compress: A person can try placing a warm compress over the nose and forehead.
• Drinking lots of fluids: It is always important to stay hydrated when experiencing illness.
• Using a saline nasal spray: According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, rinsing the nose with a saline spray can help clear the nasal passages.

Sinus pressure can feel like a pain or tightness around the eyes, nose, and forehead. It is usually a symptom of an infection, allergy, or injury.

There are many medicines for sinus pressure, including decongestants and antihistamines. The right one depends on several factors, including the cause of the problem.

90,000 causes, diagnosis and treatment| Sinupret

Publication date: 07/08/2022
Updated: 07/08/2022

Contents:

Pain in the nose and associated symptoms

900 02 Causes of pain in the nose

Mechanical injuries and damage to the nose

Neoplasms in the nasal cavity

Other causes

900 10 Diagnostic methods

Treatment of pain in the nose

Pain in the nose is a symptom that everyone experiences from time to time. It happens that discomfort occurs after trauma to the nose and damage. Usually a person understands what exactly caused the pain.

However, sometimes an unpleasant symptom occurs for no apparent reason and may indicate inflammation and other processes in the nasopharynx. You can figure out the cause of the pain in the nose, if you take into account the other symptoms.

Nasal tenderness usually occurs in combination with other symptoms, such as:

• swelling of the mucous membrane – nasal congestion, shortness of breath;

• nasal discharge, clear, mucoid, whitish, green or yellow;

• feeling of pressure, fullness in the region of the nose;

• impairment or loss of smell, distortion of odor perception;

• epistaxis;

• crusts in the nose;

• fever;

• headaches, pains in the region of the bridge of the nose, forehead and eyes.

Depending on what causes the pain in the nose, a specific cause can be assumed.

Rhinitis

The most common cause of pain inside the nose. The symptom occurs against the background of a chronic runny nose, in which the state of the nasal mucosa changes. Severe pain can develop due to atrophic rhinitis, because the mucous membrane dries up, thins and may crack. The pain is accompanied by a burning sensation, a feeling of dryness and discomfort, especially when blowing your nose, inhaling warm and dry air.

Pain in acute coryza may be associated with rubbing of the skin with a handkerchief and frequent blowing of the nose. Then we can talk about pain in the tip of the nose and in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe wings of the nose. The skin of the nose may turn red. Sometimes pain is a consequence of the use of nasal drops, especially with antibiotics, antiseptics or vasoconstrictor components in the composition. If the pain becomes unbearable, it may indicate complications of the common cold.

Sinusitis

Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, or sinusitis, is a disease characterized by constant pressing pains. Unpleasant sensations are aggravated by tilting the head down, trying to rinse the nasal cavity with water or saline. The localization of pain depends on which sinuses are inflamed. So, with frontal pain, pain occurs near the bridge of the nose, with sinusitis – near the wing of the nose on one or both sides.

The pain associated with sinusitis can be sharp, throbbing. The disease is accompanied by swelling of the skin in the area of ​​​​inflammation, and when touched, the pain intensifies. From the nose comes yellow-green mucus with an unpleasant odor, sometimes streaked with blood. Also, a person suffers from a headache, fever, general severe malaise.

Sinusitis usually develops against the background of a cold. The most common cause is an acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI), namely untreated rhinitis. The herbal drug Sinupret® will help reduce the likelihood of complications. The use of the drug from the first days of the disease helps prevent the development of complications that may occur as a result of a poorly treated rhinitis.

Purulent processes – abscesses and boils

Severe pain with a feeling of fullness may be a sign of an abscess of the nasal septum. At first, there are difficulty breathing and slight discomfort. As the pus accumulates, the pain intensifies and becomes constant. Unpleasant sensations are aggravated by wrinkling the nose and blowing your nose. An unusual thickening or change in the visible part of the nasal septum can be observed.

Jerking, throbbing pain inside the nose may be associated with the maturation of the boil. It is formed on the wing or tip of the nose, in the region of the septum. Usually, symptoms occur suddenly – when probing the nose, a seal is detected. When smiling, sneezing, chewing, discomfort increases.

The boil increases in size, the skin in this area turns red, and the pain intensifies. On average, a week passes from the onset of symptoms to the maximum increase in education and its breakthrough. After the release of pus, the pain begins to subside.

Foreign body in the nose

The severity of pain is affected by the size and configuration of the foreign body. So, the bead will not cause severe discomfort and can only provoke one-sided nasal congestion. But in the case of a larger object with sharp edges, sneezing and sharp, arching pains with a feeling of pressure, as well as copious discharge from the nose, may occur.

The pain may radiate to the cheek and forehead, accompanied by severe epistaxis or occasional bleeding from the nose. The displacement of a foreign body is indicated by scratching pains in the throat.

Sometimes sudden pain in the nose is the result of a bruise or fracture of the nose. The unpleasant symptom persists and is aggravated by blowing the nose. With a severe injury, nasal congestion may occur due to swelling of the mucous membrane, a hematoma (bruise) in the area of ​​​​the septum. This forces a person to breathe through the mouth, so dryness in the oral cavity also joins the pain. Trauma is fraught with nosebleeds and can lead to changes in the contours of the face.

The cause of pain in the nose without a runny nose can be both mechanical and chemical, electrical and thermal damage. With a burn of the skin of the nose or mucous membranes, a person is tormented not only by pain, but also by a strong burning sensation.

Some benign neoplasms of the nose – papilloma, osteoma, chondroma – may be characterized by pain, but more often people notice a feeling of a foreign body and complain of breathing problems, and pain develops only later if the neoplasm has greatly increased.

The symptom is often accompanied by decreased sense of smell, congestion on one side. Bleeding is sometimes observed, usually with tumors of a vascular nature.

There are also less common diseases that are accompanied by pain in the nose. Among them are the following ailments:

• Neuralgia of the nasociliary nerve. This disease usually develops in young people. It is characterized by severe pressing pains in the nose, eyes, forehead. The pain is paroxysmal, and the attack usually lasts no more than 60 minutes, more often occurs at night.

• Ganglioneuritis. This is an inflammation of the nerve node, in which there is severe pain in the nose. It can radiate to the eyes, the area of ​​the teeth and gums, the back of the head, the temple, the neck, etc.

• Eye diseases. Sometimes pain in the nose develops against the background of various eye diseases.

• Diseases of the skin. Symptom may occur with eczema of the skin of the nose, herpes, etc.

Why bother with pain in the nose, the otorhinolaryngologist (ENT) will determine during the diagnosis. At the first appointment, the ENT will examine the nasal cavity, can perform a rhinoscopy, probe the nose, and also listen to the patient’s complaints.

It is important to tell when and under what circumstances the pain appeared, what symptoms accompany it, whether any illnesses and injuries were transferred. Based on the available information, the doctor will prescribe additional examinations, such as:

• Rhinoscopy. It is carried out both as part of the initial appointment and during an additional examination. The specialist introduces a special mirror and examines the nasal cavity. If further diagnosis is required, mid or posterior rhinoscopy is performed using longer or special speculums, vasoconstrictor drugs, and local anesthetics. This is necessary for a deeper study, including the study of the openings of the nasal sinuses and other areas.

• Nasal endoscopy. The procedure is necessary when the use of mirrors is not enough. It involves the introduction of a thin flexible tube with a mini-video camera into the nasal cavity. The method allows you to consider under magnification all the structures of the nose, the state of the mucous membrane and deeply located tissues.

• Bacteriological research. Assume the analysis of a swab from the nose to identify the causative agent of inflammation. This method is used when an inflammatory disease is suspected, as well as when signs of purulent formation are detected. Bacpose culture is also used to determine the sensitivity of bacteria to antibiotics and select the correct treatment.

Rarely, a biopsy is required – taking a piece of tissue for examination in a laboratory. And with past injuries, sometimes a consultation with a neurologist or neurosurgeon is necessary. In addition, if you suspect a pathology on the part of the organs of vision, the otorhinolaryngologist will definitely recommend visiting an ophthalmologist.

How to treat nasal pain before visiting a doctor depends on the cause of the unpleasant symptom: in case of a burn, it is important to rinse the burnt area with cool water. If there is bleeding, one should sit down with the head tilted down and apply dry cold to the bridge of the nose.

When the body temperature is elevated and there are signs of a purulent disease or inflammation, it is important not to heat the nose area and not to try to open the abscesses on your own. It is better to see a doctor as soon as possible. If the pain occurs in isolation, without other symptoms, a consultation with a ENT specialist is necessary to identify the causes and prescribe the correct treatment.

The common cold and its complications are treated with medication. In cases of acute bacterial infections confirmed by test results, systemic antibiotics may be prescribed. For the treatment of viral rhinitis, the ENT may prescribe vasoconstrictor topical drugs or oral medications.

Sinupret® is one of the commonly prescribed cold medications. Taking “Sinupret”, started from the first day of SARS, will reduce the likelihood of complications.

The drug helps to relieve nasal congestion, and also has an antiviral effect. It is available in the form of tablets and drops for oral administration. Drops are allowed to be given to children from 2 years of age.

Surgical treatment can only be indicated for pain associated with the formation of abscesses and boils, the ingress of foreign bodies into the nasal cavity, trauma or the formation of neoplasms.

Pain in the sinuses of the nose: causes, symptoms, treatment

Very often, when something hurts, they first resort to home remedies. Sometimes they bring relief, but do not always solve the problem. If symptoms or suspicion of sinusitis appear, it is better not to delay and contact an ENT doctor as soon as possible. ENT symptoms should not be underestimated as if left untreated they can lead to problems with hearing, smelling or speaking.

Why do my sinuses hurt?

Pain in the sinuses does not always mean that they are inflamed, but be careful. If your sinus problems are not treated quickly and completely, they can become chronic. People are susceptible to this disease, especially after a cold, flu, or respiratory infections.

Allergics and asthmatics, as well as people with a deviated septum, are more likely to experience sinus problems. Interestingly, one of the reasons may be inflammation of the teeth or caries. It is also common to experience pain in the sinuses, for example, as a result of swimming or diving, polluted air or adverse weather. However, the main symptom that causes sinus pain is sinusitis, or inflammation of the paranasal sinuses.

Sinusitis symptoms

Depending on which part of the sinuses is inflamed, the symptoms may vary slightly. The most characteristic of these include: nasal congestion, purulent discharge, loss of smell and facial pain, especially around the base of the nose and forehead, which additionally radiates and intensifies when bending over. In addition, there may be fever, headache, lack of appetite, and malaise. If symptoms persist for several days or worsen, contact your doctor immediately.

Is an ENT examination painful?

One of the most frequently asked questions before a visit to the doctor – will it hurt? So, the answer is no, a visit to an ENT doctor is usually painless. The examination of patients with sinus pain begins with a detailed interview. In some cases, in-depth diagnostics may be required, i.e. x-ray or CT. X-rays are the simplest and most affordable solution, but CT scans are much more accurate, and most importantly, give doctors detailed information. Perhaps the doctor will prescribe an ultrasound of the paranasal sinuses. These studies are not painful, but are necessary to determine the further treatment of the patient.

Medical therapy

Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for sinusitis. There are many groups of antibiotics, the doctor determines the need for indications, the presence of concomitant diseases, the cause of inflammation.

Additional medicines for sinusitis:

• Vasoconstrictor drugs (drops, nasal sprays) to relieve mucosal edema, vasoconstriction
• Antihistamines if there are signs of an allergic reaction to relieve swelling
• Painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• local antiseptics (washing the nose with a solution of furacilin), sea water, saline)
• for chronic sinusitis, course use of sprays based on glucocorticoids is possible (on the recommendation of a doctor)

Home treatment

If the sinusitis is in the acute stage, drinking plenty of warm water can relieve the condition by reducing swelling and moisturizing the mucosa.