Posted on August 22, 2008 in Common Ailments
A sinus headache is caused by the inflammation of sinuses. Sinuses are tiny air-filled spaces that communicate with the nasal cavity within our skull bones and face. When the inflammation of the sinus (sinusitis) starts, the passage gets blocked due to the deposition of excess mucus and gets infected. A sinus headache usually starts in the morning with a dull constant ache and a feeling of pressure around the cheek, eyes and forehead. The pain can gradually become more severe as the sinusitis worsens.
Ways to Treat a Sinus Headache:
Allergies and cold are the two main causes of a sinus headache. In addition, a sinus headache can be caused by an injury or deformity to the nasal bones or any such conditions that may prevent the draining of the sinuses.
Listed below are the ways to treat a sinus headache:
- Avoiding Environmental Pollution: Sinuses usually become inflammed after a cold because of viral and bacterial infections. Experts recommend to use air cleaners and freshners to prevent infection through airborne toxins such as dust, mold, pollens, etc. In addition, you can also humidify the dry air environment and get relief from a sinus headache.
- Herbal Therapy: Magnolia flower can help in treating a sinus headache by widening the sinus passage and draining out excess mucus and infections. There are other herbs such as echinacea, garlic, goldenseal etc. that can help in reducing the recurrence of sinus headache by preventing or treating cold, reducing sinus inflammation, etc. Herbs should be taken under the supervision of a herbal expert.
- Hydrotherapy: The amazing healing power of water has been utilized since ages to treat a sinus headache. Experts suggest to drink plenty of water everyday so as to prevent dryness and irritation of the nasal lining. In addition, steam inhalation using essential oils such as eucalyptus, tea tree oil and lavender can help in cleansing the nasal passages.
- Balanced Diet: It is recommended that by cutting down on your daily consumption of dairy products, sugar, white flour, etc. you can reduce the production of mucus. You can also include vitamin C in your daily diet that can help in fighting sinus infections. Eating brocolli, spinach, carrots etc, can help cure sinusitis by boosting your immune system.
- Massage therapy: Ayurvedic massage can help in relieving a sinus headache by releasing the sinus pressure and detoxifiying the entire system. This is done by blending various essential oils.
- Yoga and Meditation: Yoga and meditation help by treating mental and emotional stress through deep breathing and relaxation techniques. Regular practice of some yogas such as Pranayama, Suryanamaskar, Kapalbhati, Shava asana, etc. can play a vital role in relieving sinus pain. In addition, aerobic exercises can also help in draining mucus naturally.
Maintaing a good oral health is vital to treat sinus pressure. In addition, you should also try to keep your nasal passages clean and avoid getting a cold. Regular washing of hands is important to avoid infection. Consult a doctor immediately as soon as you experience intense sinus pain.
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