Cures for Sinus Headache
- Most sinus headaches are a result of a sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, making it important to understand whether or not you're suffering from this sort of condition. This type of condition usually develops out of another, like the common cold, an upper respiratory infection, allergies or even a fungus. Regardless of its origin, the membranes within the nasal passages become irritated and inflamed. This can block the mucus and an infection can develop within the sinuses. Once the infection sets in, it can alter the pressure within any of the sinus cavities, causing you to suffer from a sinus headache. To treat this headache, you'll need to contact your doctor for a proper diagnosis to determine the best course of care.
- A physical exam, the fastest method of diagnosis, is usually the first step in determining whether or not you are suffering from a sinus infection and, in turn, a sinus headache. This entails a brief medial history and an examination of the nasal passages as well as feeling the cheeks, brows and jaw for any noticeable signs of inflammation and tenderness. If further tests are needed, a mucus culture or x-rays may be taken to test for viruses, bacteria and fungi or determine the amount of inflammation affecting the sinuses. After a diagnosis is made, the doctor can prescribe medication to treat the sinus infection and headache.
- Because most sinus headaches are a direct result of a sinus infection, treatment entails a course of antibiotics. The most common antibiotic is amoxicillin, but you may be prescribed doxycycline or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole to treat your sinus infection. All of these medications are usually taken until the prescription runs out, which is usually between 10 to 15 days. Once the sinus infection is cured, your sinus headache should no longer be a problem.
As you wait for this to happen, many over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin can alleviate some of the pressure and lessen the intensity of the headache.
Many people find additional relief by using saline nasal sprays. Instead of lessening the inflammation and headache caused by the infection, nasal sprays rinse out your nasal passages and lessen pressure.