Waking up with a throbbing headache and a tender face isn't the best way to start your day (personally, we prefer coffee!), but that's often the unpleasant reality when dealing with a sinus headache.
Whether caused by a cold or not, irritated sinuses can trigger symptoms similar to a tension headache. They might be paired with other cold and flu symptoms.
So, What's a Sinus Headache?
What is a sinus headache? Not surprisingly, you can blame the pain of a sinus headache on something bad happening in your sinuses. The underlying cause is usually a sinus infection (sinusitis) and the resulting irritation and swelling.
When exposed to irritating triggers, like bacteria or a cold or flu virus, your body responds by mounting an immune response. The delicate tissues that line your sinuses begin to swell, putting pressure on the underlying tissues in your face, leading to that uncomfortable pain you know all too well.
What are the Symptoms of a Sinus Headache?
The characteristic symptom of a sinus headache is a dull, throbbing pain at the front of your face. Depending on which sinus cavities are affected, you may notice this pain between your eyes, at the front and side of your head, in your forehead, and potentially even in your teeth.
The pain may get worse when you lean over or bend down when you touch your face (especially your cheeks or forehead), and it might also feel more severe in chilly, damp weather. If your sinus headache comes from a cold or flu, you'll have other symptoms, too. Those might include general body aches, fever, coughing, chest congestion, and excess mucus.
How to Stop a Sinus Headache
Step one when fighting a sinus headache is to alleviate your discomfort. Look for medications that contain pain relievers, which can help dull the ache and relieve the sense of pressure. If your sinus headache stems from an underlying cold or flu, an over-the-counter medication with multi-symptom relief may help. Try one that combines pain relief (like acetaminophen) with a nasal decongestant (like phenylephrine) and expectorant (like guaifenesin) to clear excess mucus.
Luckily, some Mucinex® products with these active ingredients for sinus headache relief options help fight cold, flu, and sinus headache symptoms.
Mucinex® Maximum Strength Sinus-Max® Pressure, Pain & Cough Liquid Gels
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Maximum Strength Sinus-Max® Pressure, Pain & Cough Caplets
Discover the power of Maximum Strength Sinus-Max® Pressure, Pain & Cough Caplets for round-the-clock sinus multi-symptom relief, including sinus headaches. Experience its effectiveness day and night, with each dose providing up to 4 hours of relief.
Remember, when taking over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, it is important to prioritize safety. Always read and follow the instructions and dosages provided on the label.
Consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you have concerns or questions regarding potential interactions with other medications, underlying health conditions, or if symptoms persist or worsen. Remember, OTC medicines are designed for temporary relief and are not substitutes for professional medical advice or treatment. For sinus headaches caused by bacteria, you should see a healthcare professional for antibiotics or other treatment options.
Other Ways to Find Sinus Headache Relief
On top of using over-the-counter medicine options to find sinus headache relief caused by a cold or flu, try these other methods to help you feel better faster.
● Rinse your sinuses: Using a neti pot or syringe with salt water may help flush debris from your sinuses to relieve sinus infection symptoms.
● Breathe in steam or humid air: This may relieve nasal congestion.
● Apply a warm compress: Resting a warm towel over your sinuses may offer relief.
● See a doctor: If your symptoms last more than a week, if you experience a high fever, or if your headache feels severe, seek medical attention to rule out another underlying cause.
No More Wondering, "What is a Sinus Headache?" Understanding what a sinus headache is is crucial to finding effective relief. These headaches, often accompanied by sinus tension and other cold and flu symptoms, are primarily caused by sinus infections and the resulting inflammation. The pain can be debilitating, affecting various areas of the face.
By taking a comprehensive approach to sinus tension headache relief, combining suitable medications, and exploring alternative methods, you can effectively manage and alleviate the discomfort of sinus tension headaches. Remember to prioritize your well-being and seek professional guidance when needed.
Resources
● Harvard Medical School, 2022, What to do About Sinusitis
● Merck Manuals, 2022, Sinusitis
