Sinus pain is one of the more common health issues patients report to doctors. It can accompany both the common cold and chronic conditions such as sinus infections. Although painful sinuses are often ignored or considered a minor problem, they can significantly impact quality of life and require proper treatment. Why do sinuses hurt, and what should you do if these symptoms occur?

Sinus Pain – Causes and Symptoms

Sinuses are empty, air-filled spaces in the skull located around the forehead, cheeks, eyes, and nose. They perform several functions, such as moisturizing inhaled air and protecting the brain from mechanical injuries. They also participate in voice resonance.

When the sinuses become clogged or irritated, pain may appear most often in the forehead area, cheeks, around the eyes, or deep in the face.

Sinus pain or sinus headache can be caused by various factors, such as:

• Viral or bacterial infections that lead to inflammation in the sinuses, causing swelling and preventing proper mucus drainage.
• Allergies – chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa, caused by allergens, can also result in swelling and recurrent sinus pain.
• Anatomical abnormalities – in some individuals, the structure of the nasal turbinates or nasal septum can promote mucus buildup in the sinuses, leading to sinus headaches.
• Air pollution and dry air – prolonged exposure to air pollutants, dust, or dry air can irritate the sinus mucosa, causing pain.

How to Manage Sinus Pain? Effective Methods

Sinus pain can be extremely bothersome, making daily activities difficult. However, many approaches can help alleviate discomfort and speed up healing. How to cope with sinus pain?

Sinus Irrigation

Sinus irrigation is one of the most effective methods for removing accumulated mucus and moisturizing the mucous membranes. Regularly rinsing your nose with a saline solution or over-the-counter products can help clear the sinuses and reduce pain. It removes pollutants, allergens, and excess mucus, reducing inflammation and speeding recovery. It is important to use the correct irrigation technique to avoid damaging the mucous membranes.

Herbal Preparations

Herbal-based products, such as infusions or essential oil solutions, can also help relieve sinus pain. Examples of plants that have a soothing effect on sinus inflammation include:

• Eucalyptus – has anti-inflammatory properties and helps in mucus removal.
• Chamomile – has a soothing effect on the mucous membrane, reducing swelling.
• Peppermint – helps unblock sinuses and brings relief from pain.

Maintaining Proper Air Humidity

Air that is too dry can irritate the nasal and sinus mucosa, worsening sinus pain. Keeping indoor air properly humidified, especially during winter, can help relieve symptoms. Humidifiers help maintain proper humidity levels. Regular ventilation of rooms is also recommended.

Pain Medications

Over-the-counter pain medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen are commonly used to relieve sinus pain. They have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, helping reduce mucosal swelling and pain. However, pain medications only relieve symptoms temporarily; they do not treat the root cause. Consulting a doctor can help determine the appropriate therapy.

Medical Procedures

In cases where sinus pain is chronic or particularly severe, medical procedures may be necessary. Common treatments include inhalations with medicinal solutions that help clear the sinuses and reduce inflammation. If the sinuses are heavily blocked, it may be necessary to perform a puncture to remove accumulated mucus.

See also: Sinus Pain and Air Pollution

Sinus Pain Diagnosis

Although many people with sinus pain use home methods to relieve symptoms, accurate diagnosis is crucial for chronic issues. A CT scan of the sinuses is one of the most advanced diagnostic tools, allowing for a detailed assessment of sinus structure and identification of the causes of chronic sinus pain. It is also useful for determining whether the patient is indeed suffering from sinus issues or if there is another cause that could be mistaken for sinus pain.

Tomography of the sinuses in Kraków, performed by Skanai specialists, provides detailed images that enable the identification of abnormalities in the sinuses, such as:

• Blockage of the sinuses by mucus, pus, or other debris.
• Polyps or tumors that may cause chronic inflammation.
• Anatomical structural problems (e.g., a deviated nasal septum) that can affect sinus drainage.

With tomography of the sinuses, the doctor can make an accurate diagnosis of sinus pain and plan appropriate treatment.

Sinus pain can significantly affect quality of life. To improve patient comfort, it is essential to eliminate the causes of the discomfort, not only the symptoms. Meticulous diagnosis of sinus pain is key in this context. Understanding what lies behind sinus pain makes it possible to implement effective treatment, tailored to each patient’s needs. This is why imaging studies play such an important role in making a correct sinus pain diagnosis.

Sources:

1. dr n. med. M. Zagor, lek. med. P. Czarnecka, lek. med. M. Janoska-Jaździk, Diagnostyka nosa i zatok przynosowych, Mp.pl. 7.02.2024, dost. 21.11.2024 
2. Lek. M. Wiercińska, Zapalenie zatok przynosowych: przyczyny, objawy, leczenie, Mp.pl, 30.09.2022, dost. 21.11.2024