Sinus Pressure

Sinuses are part of the nasal air and membrane system, and are responsible for producing mucus, that cleans and moistens the nose and throat membranes. Mucus is a watery substance that is packed with loads of chemical elements like mucins, salts, water and germ fighting enzymes. It protects the respiratory system from harmful bacteria, viruses, germs and dust particles. Each sinus opens into the nose that allows free exchange of mucus and air. This was some information about the sinuses and their basic function.

What is Sinus Pressure?

Sinus pressure is the result of viral infections, bacterial sinusitis or inflammation of the sinus cavities. Pollutants, viruses, bacteria etc, irritate the sinus membranes, which in turn produce excessive mucus to wash away the irritants. This excess mucus gets trapped in the cavities, and leads to blockage of the openings. Pressure begins to build up in the sinus cavities as a result of the blocked openings. Mucus trapped inside gets accumulated there and causes infection and inflammation of the sinus membranes. The inflamed sinus tissue and the congestion of mucus creates pressure and pain in the sinus.

Sinus Pressure - Causes

There can be several causes for inflammation and infection of sinus membrane leading to sinus pressure. The most common cause is sinusitis. It refers to inflammation of the nasal passages as a result of bacterial, viral or fungal infections. Allergic reactions from dust, pollen, or certain chemicals may result in inflammation of the sinus and eventually, sinus pressure. Common colds, flu and consuming mucus producing foods can also cause pressure in the sinuses.

Sinus Pressure - Symptoms

Symptoms of this sinus problem are similar to that of common cold, but they persist longer and cannot be treated effectively with normal cold treatment. It may also result in sinus ear pressure leading to pain in the ear, muffled hearing or ringing sound in the ear. Some of the symptoms are as follows:

• Headaches
• Nasal congestion
• Phlegm
• Post nasal drip
• Weakness or fatigue
• Sinus infection
• Stuffy and runny nose
• Cold and cough
• Rhinitis or hay fever
• Reduced sense of smell
• Difficulty in breathing
• Fullness in the ears

Sinus Pressure - Treatment

Sinus pressure can be a painful condition, but the good news is that it can be relieved completely. The key is to relieve the symptoms first and break the cycle that leads to sinus pressure. Treatment involves the use of antibiotics for a period of 2 to 3 weeks to deal with the infection. Antihistamines or decongestants may also be recommended for a short period to ease the sinus headaches. Other drugs used to treat this sinus problem include pain relievers and vasoconstrictors to decrease nasal congestion. But if the pain continues, even after the recommended dosage of the above drugs, corticosteroids may be prescribed to decrease the inflammation. Sinus pressure can also be relieved naturally.

There are certain pressure points which can wash away the trapped mucus and open up the blocked nasal passages. Home remedies like using certain essential oils or having herbal tea can also ease the sinus pressure pains.