Sinus Headache
Sinus headaches are characterized by a dull, throbbing pain experienced in the face and forehead area. A sinus headache is caused by inflammation of the sinuses. The sinuses are cavities located around the nose, cheeks and eye areas. The pain generally worsens when the individual bends or leans over. Cold and damp weather could also aggravate sinus headache symptoms. Sinus headaches tend to begin as soon as one wakes up in the morning and may subside by the afternoon. These headaches are often difficult to diagnose as the symptoms are very similar to migraines and tension headaches.
The symptoms of sinus headache include tenderness in the facial area and pain in a certain area of the face and head. The pain may also get aggravated when the head is suddenly moved or the body is bent forward. The pain is likely to be considerably greater in the mornings since the mucus tends to accumulate in the sinus cavities during the night. Sudden changes in temperature can cause significant worsening of the pain. Headaches also become aggravated during or after a cold. There are also some symptoms that are indicative of sinus inflammation. These include fever, fatigue and general malaise. There is also likely to be swelling and redness of the nasal passages and nasal discharge. Sinus inflammation or sinusitis is also characterized by postnasal drip which often leads to a sore throat. Sinusitis may be caused by allergies or respiratory infection. When the sinuses get blocked, the mucus cannot drain out of them. Bacteria, viruses and fungi may grow in the blocked sinuses and infection occurs.
Use of nasal sprays helps to provide sinus headache relief. Pain relieving medication may also be prescribed in some cases. Warm soups help to ease nasal congestion. You can also add pepper to soups or teas to alleviate sinus problems. Ginger is beneficial in treating sinus headaches. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce infection. Steam inhalation is one of the best sinus headache natural cure. Boil some water in a large pot and add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to it. Wrap a towel around the head and inhale the steam arising from the water. This will help to clear up blocked sinus cavities. You could also add peppermint oil to the water for relief from sinus headaches. Another effective remedy for a sinus headache is cinnamon. Combine cinnamon powder with a little water and apply the paste to the forehead. This will help to alleviate pain and discomfort.
