Headaches: sinus

Sinus headaches can occur when the sinuses or the mucous membranes of the nose become swollen or clogged. The sinuses are hollow spaces in the skull bone located between the eyes and in the area of the cheek on both sides of the head.

The sinuses are lined with a mucous membrane similar to the inside of the nose that keeps them moist and produces mucous. When germs settle and grow on these surfaces, the surfaces swell and produce too much mucous. Most people have felt brief pain in the sinuses after they swallow very cold drinks or ice cream.

If an infection goes unchecked, the sinuses become more and more clogged. The excess mucous gives the germs a good place to multiply. These germs could be viruses, bacteria, or even fungus. The pressure from this swelling inside the sinuses causes the headache. Most sinus problems follow a cold or a sore throat. Some occur after a dental infection. Sometimes hay fever or irritation from dust or smoke will cause the swelling.

Sinus headache pain occurs in the face and forehead, and sometimes behind or between the eyes. It can be dull or severe. Often the pain is worse in the morning and improves by afternoon. The pain may also be worse when bending your head forward. It can feel worse on cool, damp days. Over-the-counter medicines may be used to relieve the pain, however, carefully review the label directions and precautions for other health considerations before taking. Contact your physician before taking any pain relievers if you have high blood pressure.

A fever may occur if there is a sinus infection. Other signs of infection are mucous coming out of the nose that is an unusual color (red, yellow, or green), or that smells foul.

Treatment of a sinus headache involves helping the sinuses drain and heal any infection. Inhaling steam or mist from a hot shower or putting moisture in the air with a vaporizer often relieves the clogging. Warm compresses to the face may also relieve pain.

Nasal sprays or pills that unclog sinuses (called nasal decongestants) can be purchased over-the-counter. The sprays usually work better than the pills. Carefully read and follow the directions and warnings on the labels. Sprays should not be used for more than 3 days at a time. Smokers should stop smoking and avoid other people's smoke and other irritants in the air. Try to avoid leaning over and keep your head elevated in bed to relieve pressure.

If you have sinus pain and a fever or foul-smelling nasal discharge, call your healthcare provider. If your sinuses are infected, you will probably need to take antibiotic pills for at least ten days. Antibiotics are available only from a healthcare provider.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File HEAD4633.RF2 VRS# 4633 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999, 2002-2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.