Sinus pressure headaches are commonly the result of sinusitis (sinus infection) due to swollen sinus membranes, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sinus pressure may cause pain in the eyes, the inner ear, in the cheeks and throughout the head. Although some people choose to use medication to treat sinus pressure headaches, natural home remedies may be as effective without the side effects of medicine.
Use Saline
Use saline sprays or saline sinus washes to cleanse and treat sinus pressure headaches. Buy a neti pot (a teapot-shaped nasal pot) from your local pharmacy. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should fill the neti pot with water and mix in the saline packet that comes with the saline rinse. Place your head over a sink, while placing the opening of the pot to one nostril. Tilt your head in the direction of the neti pot and allow gravity to draw the water through your sinus cavity, coming out the other nostril. Gently blow your nose after all the saline washes through your sinuses and repeat on the other nostril. Repeat twice a day. Use saline sprays as often as needed throughout the day, as you are on the go. Spray two to three squirts of saline in each nostril to help maintain moister in the sinus cavity. Blow your nose after each use to rid the sinuses of any excess mucus. Wash the tip of the saline spray with soap and water after each use to prevent infection from spreading.
Use Humidity
Humidifiers or the use of steam can help with breathing issues due to sinus congestion, according to the Mayo Clinic. Maintaining the proper moisture level, between 30 and 50 percent in your home, can help to reduce nasal congestion. Too little humidity can make the air dry, which can irritate the sinuses even more, causing inflammation, but overuse of a humidifier also can promote the growth of harmful bacteria and mold in your home. Purchase a room humidifier and run it at night while you sleep, maintaining the proper moisture level.
When using a humidifier, keep it well maintained and clean. Lack of maintenance can lead to the growth of mold spores that can lead to an allergic reaction. Dump and refill the water basin after each use and replace the filter every 30 days or when it is discolored.
Warm and Cold Compresses
The American Academy of Otolaryngology suggests using warm and cold compresses to reduce swelling, inflammation and sinus pressure. Place a warm compress, around 110 degrees, across your face, over your eyes and nose for 30 minutes, while lying on your back. Remove the warm compress and then place a cold compress on the same area of the face for 30 seconds. Repeat this three times in a row and up to six times a day.
About this Author
Emily DeSerio has been an approved writer with Demand Studios since November 2009. She began her higher level education at the University of South Florida (USF) with a B.A. in English and went on to complete a Master of Social Work degree at USF as well. DeSerio works in the mental health field as a clinical social worker.
