by Nicole Evans M.D.

Created on: November 29, 2009

Sinus pressure is a miserable symptom of viral infections, bacterial sinusitis, allergies, and even dry air. Whether sinus pressure is caused by an infectious agent or an environmental sensitivity, the steps that lead to sinus pressure are the same.

1. Something irritates the mucosal tissue lining the sinuses.

2. The sinus mucosa reacts by becoming swollen and inflamed.

3. The secretions that sinuses produce in response to the irritant have a hard time draining out the swollen, narrowed exits.

4. The inflamed sinus tissue and backed up congestion of mucous secretions creates persistent, aching sinus pressure.

The best tips for relieving sinus pressure work by addressing each of these steps. The key is to relieve the symptoms and break the cycle so that sinus pressure doesn't recur.

Tip #1: Use a nasal decongestant.

By cutting down the inflammation and/or swelling, nasal decongestants open the passages to allow the mucous congestion to drain out. There are two effective nasal decongestant choices.

If your sinus pressure is due to an allergic reaction then a prescription nasal steroid is your best bet to cut down the inflammation and open your sinuses. Flonase is a commonly prescribed nasal decongestant.

If your sinus pressure is the result of an infectious sinusitis or a reaction to dry air then a nasal decongestant such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) may work best. This decongestant works to effectively shrink the swollen nasal tissue.

Tip #2: Get the congested mucous draining.

Acupressure can be an effective way to drain stuffed up sinuses while relieving sinus pain. Use your index fingers to rub up and down either side of the bridge of your nose near your cheeks for one minute. Then press on either side of your nostril and rub in a circular motion away from your nose for one minute.

Tip #3: Wash away the mucous and irritants.

A saline nasal rinse is an absolute must for relieving sinus pressure and should be done several times a day. Some people will continue the daily use of saline rinses to prevent the return of sinus problems. There are many different methods of sinus rinsing to choose from. A saline nasal spray will work if used copiously. Otherwise, salt water and a netti pot or low sided bowl can be used to rinse the sinuses.

Make your own saline rinse by combining teaspoon of sea salt with 1 cup of room temperature water. A nettipot allows the user to pour the solution into the sinuses, while a small bowl requires the user to close the opposite nostril and snort the salt water up the nasal passages.

Tip #4: Treat the cause.

Figure out which irritant put the steps in motion that led to your sinus pressure.

-A viral infection will resolve with time.

-A bacterial infection requires antibiotics.

-Allergic reactions can be addressed by avoiding the culprit and using daily antihistamines if necessary. Some individuals find homeopathic remedies effective in preventing allergies.

-Dry air, particularly winter air with the indoor heat blasting, can be irritating. Cracking the window or using a humidifier is a simply way to correct this situation.

Sinus pressure is a symptom that is easily treated and, in some cases, preventable. Follow the tips above to relieve sinus headaches and a congested head.

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