Ways to help manage sinus pressure

It might start as pressure and pain building behind the eyes, nose, forehead and cheeks. That area contains the sinuses, and when they get congested, it can feel like someone’s entire face has a headache.

“The sinuses are cavities off the nose, almost like rooms off of a hallway,” says Manan Shah, MD, an ear, nose and throat surgeon, allergist and co-founder of Wyndly, a company that offers allergy treatment. “When they are inflamed, patients can experience facial pain and pressure.”

Fortunately, there are plenty of things people can do at home, plus over-the-counter (OTC) options that may help improve this pressure and aid them in breathing easier.

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What is sinus pressure?

Imagine the sinuses as pockets of air residing behind the forehead, nose, cheeks and eyes (all the spots that throb). Healthy sinuses are free and clear, but they can get clogged with mucus when someone is sick or has seasonal allergies.

Sinus pressure is often caused by an infection in that packed environment, typically coming from a virus (like the viruses that cause the common cold) or other pathogens. It can clear up on its own or with a prescription. But some people suffer from chronic sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses that can be due to viral, bacterial or fungal infection) that lasts for months.

“Inflammation or swelling of the tissue that lines the sinuses can lead to sinus pressure,” says Shoshana Ungerleider, MD. Infections are just one cause, she notes. Nasal polyps or a deviated septum might also increase someone’s risk of getting a sinus infection.

And allergens can play a role, causing the nasal passages to swell, which can lead to pressure and discomfort. Environmental factors, such as irritants like smoke and pollution, can also play a role.

Home options for sinus pressure

For those looking for some relief support at home, several techniques are popular. It’s always recommended to talk to a health care provider before starting or stopping any over-the-counter product.

Nasal irrigation

“Nasal saline irrigation, such as with a neti pot or saline spray, can help clear out the sinuses, reduce inflammation and relieve pressure,” Dr. Ungerleider says.

Always follow the instructions on the packaging, but in general, distilled or previously boiled and then cooled water is used in neti pots and similar devices. It’s advisable to clean the device thoroughly after use as instructed. Tap water isn’t adequately filtered to safely use for a nasal rinse. Organisms from tap water can linger in nasal passages and cause infections.

Sinus pressure points, self-massage and acupressure

Facial massage can help stimulate drainage of the mucus and fluid buildup in the sinus cavities. “By massaging the face, some patients will experience relief from the pressure,” Dr. Shah says.

Massage, like other home remedies, shouldn’t take the place of a visit with a health care provider, Dr. Shah adds.

“In general, for sinus pressure and pain, we recommend that a patient works with a health care provider,” Dr. Shah says. “If it’s chronic infections or allergies, nasal rinses or nasal steroids can help. For allergies, allergy testing and treatment may help.”

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications to help with sinus pressure

Common OTC medications may help support relief from sinus pressure. They work in different ways, Dr. Ungerleider explains.

• Decongestants help narrow blood vessels and help reduce swelling in the nasal passages. They may come in the form of a nasal spray or a pill.
• Nasal corticosteroids sprays can decrease inflammation and alleviate other symptoms, such as sneezing.
• Pain relievers such as acetaminophen can help with the pain of sinus pressure.
• Antihistamines may help people with allergies by blocking the release of histamine, which causes inflammation, a runny nose and other symptoms.

OTC medications should be used according to the instructions on the box and not for too long. Some decongestant nasal sprays can cause a “rebound” of inflammation and congestion if used continuously for more than a couple of days, Dr. Ungerleider says. A pharmacist, health care provider or the directions found on the product can offer guidance on how long to use them.

“People should always consult a health care provider before starting any medication, especially if they have other health conditions or are taking other medications,” Dr. Ungerleider says. Note that some oral decongestants have pseudoephedrine, which can raise blood pressure. People with high blood pressure or an enlarged prostate should not take drugs containing pseudoephedrine.

Preventative measures for sinus pressure

It may not be possible to prevent sinus pressure 100 percent of the time. But uncovering the root causes and triggers may help. And other approaches may help support relief from the worst episodes.

These methods may help support relief from lingering sinus pressure pain:

• Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water keeps mucus thin and helps sinuses drain more easily.
• Flush the nasal passages. Wash away bacteria or allergens from the nose with daily nasal irrigation. Follow the instructions on the neti pot.
• Avoid smoke and other air pollution. Exposure to cigarette smoke and environmental contaminants may increase the risk of developing sinus problems.
• Use a humidifier. Humidifiers help eliminate dry air, which can irritate and inflame airways in the nose. Choose a cool-mist humidifier and be sure clean it daily to prevent a build-up of bacteria.

“While many techniques and OTC options can provide relief, it’s vital to recognize when sinus pressure is more than a temporary discomfort,” notes Dr. Ungerleider. “Persistent or severe symptoms, especially those lasting more than 10 days, warrant a visit to a health care provider.”