Sinus Headache Behind Eyes

Sinuses are hollow, air-filled cavities that are located in the bones within the skull. There are four pairs of air-filled cavities that are connected with the nasal cavity through a small orifice called ostium. Sinuses are lined with mucous membrane, which secretes mucus that not only keeps the nasal passages moist, but also traps pathogens or irritants. Small hair-like projections called cilia help in propelling the mucus towards the back of the nose. While sinuses are an important component of nasal anatomy, nasal structures such as septum and turbinates also play an important role in regulation of air-flow within the nasal passages. Turbinates are small bony projections in the nasal passages that filter the air. Sinuses, along with such nasal structures filter out pathogens and environmental irritants from inhaled air and prevent them from entering the lungs. Swelling of the nasal passages, sinus headache behind eyes, feeling of pressure around the face and nasal congestion are some of the most common signs of a sinus infection. A sinus pressure headache occurs when these air-filled spaces get blocked with mucus. Scroll down to find out more about the causes and treatment of sinus pressure or headache.

When Does One Experience a Sinus Headache Behind the Eyes?

Four pairs of air-filled cavities called frontal sinuses, maxillary sinuses, sphenoid sinuses and ethmoid sinuses are located within the skull. These sinuses have been named after the bones within which they are located. The frontal sinuses are located in the frontal bone in the forehead, while the maxillary sinuses are located within the maxillary bone under the eyes. The ethmoid sinuses lie within the ethmoid bone, which in turn, is located between the nose and the eyes. The sphenoid sinuses lie behind the eyes, deep within the center of the skull. The feeling of pressure or pain behind the eyes occurs due to the inflammation of ethmoid or sphenoid sinuses.

While sinus pressure or headaches due to sphenoid sinusitis exacerbates when the patient bends forward or while lying on the back, pressure due to inflammation of ethmoid sinuses, often worsens while coughing or lying on back. Wondering what causes inflammation of these sinuses? Well, sinus infection may occur due to upper respiratory infections or allergies. Sinuses and turbinates may swell up as they filter environmental pollutants, allergens or pathogens from the inhaled air. Exposure to such irritants may result in blockage of small openings that connect sinuses to nasal cavity. When mucus gets trapped in sinus cavities, pathogens may get a chance to multiply, which in turn, would lead to the inflammation of the sinuses. Headache, nasal congestion, sore throat, blurred vision, breathing problems and pressure around the inflamed sinus are some of the most common symptoms of sinusitis.

Treatment of Sinus Headaches

The best way to get rid of a sinus pressure or headaches is to treat sinusitis. While antibiotics would be prescribed for treating a bacterial infection, antihistamines are recommended for treating an allergy. Decongestants, anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids or painkillers may also be prescribed. One can also try certain home remedies that may provide relief from headaches that are experienced due to inflamed sinuses. First of all, one must take ample rest and give the body enough time to recover. Since blocked sinuses are responsible for the symptoms, one could drink herbal tea, warm water or soups in order to loosen the mucus. Once the mucus is drained off, the feeling of pressure will surely go away. Inhalation of steam, application of warm compresses on face or nasal irrigation can also provide relief. Massaging sinus pressure points or following alternative healing therapies such as shiatsu or acupressure can also help in relieving sinus pressure. Since exposure to allergens or irritants is a common cause of sinusitis, one needs to stay away from places where one may get exposed to environmental pollutants or allergens.

Sinusitis can be caused by a wide range of reasons. It is therefore essential to identify the underlying cause. One must therefore seek medical help on experiencing the symptoms of sinusitis. A timely treatment involving drug therapy or remedies can alleviate the distressing symptoms of sinusitis and put an end to one's suffering.