Sinus headaches result from congestion or infection in the paranasal sinuses. These are cavities located in the bones of the face adjacent to the nasal cavity, and are individually known as the maxillary, frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses. Understanding the causes of sinus infection can go a long way to controlling the symptoms and possibly avoiding surgery.

Sinus cavities normally secrete mucus which drains into the nose where it can be eliminated. It is estimated that more than a quart of thin mucus is produced by your mucous membranes each day. The purpose of this mucus is to clean and keep moist the nose and throat lining. Infections or allergic reactions can prevent the normal flow of mucus causing it to build up and become inflamed which can result in sinus pain.

The pain or pressure is typically a dull, constant, aching pain over the affected sinuses which are located in the forehead, cheekbones, and bridge of the nose. The pain is generally worsened by lying face up or bending over. Accompanying the pain is usually a high amount of nasal discharge, fever, and swelling in the face. Sinusitis occurs in as many as 40 million Americans.

Migraine headache symptoms are often mistaken for sinus infections. A migraine can cause irritation to the trigeminal nerve, also known as the fifth cranial nerve, which innervates the facial area in and around the sinus cavities in the cheekbones. Nasal congestion, tearing, and a runny nose are not uncommon occurrences with migraines which only add to the confusion. One study suggests that as many as 90% of all sinus headaches are in reality migraine headaches.

Sinusitis is very common and can range from a slightly annoying pain to a severe pain that is almost unbearable. Sinus infections can cause coughing, sneezing, and a tired achy feeling and will often be misdiagnosed as a cold.

The most common form of treatment is over-the-counter medication. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) can relieve some symptoms of sinusitis, especially the pain and headaches associated with it. Other medical treatments have not shown as much success. Antibiotics appear to be effective in as little as 10% of occurrences and corticosteroids have been found to be no better than placebos. In chronic and recurring cases where previous medical approaches have failed surgery is sometimes considered. However, in most cases the results of surgery are no better than typical medical treatment.

There are many natural methods for finding relief and steam is probably the most popular among them. Dry air can irritate the sinus membranes, causing sinusitis and headaches. Inhaling moisture by breathing steam, either from a boiling pot of water, a hot shower, or an electric steam machine can serve as a perfect home remedy.

Another remedy is massaging acupressure points located between the thumb and index fingers of the hands. Gently, but firmly, rub and apply pressure to the web of your hand between your thumb and index finger for about 15 or 20 seconds. Repeat on your other hand and then continue alternating between both hands as necessary. Since it’s possible to stimulate uterine contractions, pregnant women should avoid this procedure. It’s also possible to get relief by massaging the area directly above the center of the eyebrows in the same manner.

Instead of treating the symptoms as they present themselves it is often possible to achieve a long term solution. Eating healthy meals, exercising regularly, and getting the proper amount of sleep can go a long way to strengthening the immune system. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may not only improve sinus problems, but overall health as well.