4 Ways to Relieve Sinus Pain and Pressure

Chronic sinus pain and pressure can be frustrating. It can leave you with a pounding headache or facial pain so bad that it can interfere with your activities. Often, sinus pain and pressure go away after a few days. But when you are suffering through a period where your head feels heavy and stuffed up, it can feel like it may never end. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to relieve short-term sinus pain and pressure.

Causes of Short-Term Sinus Pain and Pressure

Many times, your stuffy sinuses result from allergies or irritants in the air. These irritants and allergens cause inflammation in your sinuses. They become swollen and fill with fluid. The fluid cannot properly drain because of the inflammation. It is this fluid buildup that causes the pressure. When the pressure affects the nerves, it causes pain.

Relieving Sinus Pain and Pressure

There are ways to treat short-term sinus problems yourself. Sometimes it takes a combination of methods to get relief. Here are four ways to tackle your stuffed-up sinuses on your own:

1. Steam. A very warm (not hot) shower or inhaling steam from a bowl of warm water can help moisten your sinuses and thin out any mucus. This lets your sinuses drain, reducing pain and pressure.
2. Keep Your Head Up. Elevating your head while laying down prevents mucus from building up in your sinuses. This keeps your sinuses draining, reduces sinus pressure and keeps pain from getting worse.
3. Drink water. Dehydration can leave your nasal passages dry, which can increase inflammation.
4. Gentle Exercise. While you may not feel much like exercising, gentle movements can increase your blood flow and provide temporary relief.

Treatment for Chronic Sinus Pain and Pressure

If your symptoms do not clear up after a few days of at-home care, or continue to return, you should consult a specialist to find out the underlying cause of your sinus pain. Dr. Greg Levitin will explore all the options to reduce your inflammation and stuffiness. Contact the City Sinus Care office today to arrange your appointment.