Sinus Headaches

 
Sinus headaches can be caused due to sinusitis, which in turn, is caused because of either an allergy or an infection. It is thus important to recognize what is the cause for the sinus headache and treat it accordingly.

The main purpose of a sinus headache relieving medicine is to open the nasal passages, treat infection if any and allow the sinus cavities to drain.

Nasal vasoconstrictors and pain-relieving medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium or acetaminophen can be used for the purpose. Care should be taken that aspirin is not given to children as it may lead to the development of Reye's syndrome which can be potentially lethal.

Decongestants which thin out the mucus and hence relieve sinus should also be administered. These are available in the form of oral or nasal sprays. You should be extremely careful while using nasal sprays as these can lead to dependence. Also, they are to be avoided if you have heart diseases, high blood pressure, migraine, Raynaud's disease, emphysema, difficulty in urinating or if you are taking any antidepressants. Steroid nose sprays may be used to reduce inflammation.

In case of a sinus headache due to a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. But if there is a structural deformity in the nose or the sinus passage itself, like nasal polyps, then you might have to go in for surgery. But surgery is always risky. Hence, other alternative methods are tried before such an invasive method is utilized. If an allergy is responsible for sinus headache, then you can use corticosteroids.

While you are taking a treatment, self care is also important. It includes breathing in warm, moist air and avoiding smoke, even second-hand. Ask the doctor about nasal irrigation and do it at home. Even a saline nasal spray can be used. This can be used up to 6 times a day quite safely.

Alternative therapies like acupuncture and homeopathy may also work in some cases.