Headaches are annoying at best and debilitating at their worst, but even more so when they are caused by clogged sinuses. These types of headaches cause severe pain and deep pressure between the eyes, just above the nose. It is sometimes difficult to know the right treatment for it because most of the time, the underlying cause is unknown. Some mistake their headaches as caused by sinusitis when it is actually a migraine and vice versa. So, how to check if your headache is related to a sinus headache? If the same is, then what sinus treatment is best for it?
* Diagnosing Your Headache Correctly
The first thing that has to be done is to find out the cause of the headache and determine if it is a migraine or a sinus headache. There is a lot of confusion about the different types of headaches, because of the overlapping symptoms. Plus, headaches commonly occur in various ailments as well. So, it is critical that a person gets the correct diagnosis for whatever is ailing him or her, so that the pain is relieved soon.
* Symptoms of Sinus Headaches
The most common symptom of a sinus headache is the feeling of pressure and pain around the sinuses. This pain is often felt in your forehead, above the nose and especially, behind or between the eyes. These areas might even feel tender at times. Another symptom is pain that becomes worse when lying down or bending over.
However, if a headache is the only symptom, then it is probably not a sinus headache as this type of headache often comes with other symptoms, like cough, fatigue, nasal discharge, stuffy nose or sore throat.
* Treatments for Sinus Headaches
The best way to treat a sinus headache is to do the two-pronged approach, treating the headache and the basic cause at the same time. To ease sinus headaches, try the following -
* Use an OTC pain reliever. This is probably the first and most common solution everyone does. Medications can help minimize the pain, but remember to follow the label's instructions and never take these medications for 10 days or more without your doctor's approval.
* Take a decongestant. Decongestants are such OTC medicines that open the sinus cavities which are blocked by lowering swelling in the nasal passages. It also reduces mucus which the passages secrete. Like pain relievers, decongestants of any form should not be taken for an extended period of time without first consulting a doctor. Nasal decongestants in form of spray should only be used for 3 days on a stretch and orally for only a week.
* A doctor might prescribe other medicines or nasal sprays to reduce congestion and headaches.
* One easy sinus treatment would be to moist all nasal passages, since dry air irritates the sinuses. A vaporizer is best for keeping the air humid. A person can also place a wet warm towel over the face for some time.
* Nasal irrigation is also one treatment that should be considered. Use a Neti pot or bulb syringe to flush the sinus with salt water. This helps moisten and clear the mucus from nasal passages, thereby reducing the pressure.
* Avoiding irritants, like cigarette smoke or perfume, can also go a long way to minimize sinus headache attacks.
Keeping in mind the above mentioned information can help you identify and find the best cure to cure your sinus problem. Make sure to carefully analyze your condition and consult a doctor to get the most appropriate sinus treatment, to avoid the situation from getting worse.
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