Pounding headache coming into the way of work? Are you prone to sinus headaches? Luckily enough, there are some simple-yet-effective remedies that can help you get relief.
When the sinuses inflame, the cavities are unable to drain mucus properly which increases pressure. Due to this increase in pressure, there is a headache. Now, the sinuses can inflame due to various causes including allergies, infections, or colds.
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Top 10 Home Remedies for Sinus Headache
Here are the top 10 at-home treatment that can help in easing out sinus pain as well as inflammation and eventually, cure a sinus headache-
Use a neti pot
When the mucus in the sinuses gets infected, using a neti pot to relieve congestion can help. Using distilled water and salt to clean out the nasal passages can help in draining mucus more effectively. But it is important to mention here that using a neti pot is not easy, but with practice one can handle it.
Take a saline spray
Unable to use a neti pot? Use a saline solution to open the nasal passages to get relief from sinus headache. The solution helps the tiny hair inside the nostrils to remove mucus and allergens from the nose.
Also Read: Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray: Uses, Effectiveness and Side Effects
Inhale steam
According to the CDC, breathing warm, moist air can open up the sinus cavity and soothe out sinus pressure. For people suffering from chronic sinus, taking a hot shower in the morning can reduce the risk of headaches throughout the day. Stand in a steam shower and breathe deeply to open up the nasal passages so the mucus can drain and relieve sinus headache.
Apply warm compresses
This is another effective remedy to relieve sinus pain according to the Center for Disease Control. Applying a warm compress can warm up the nasal passages and eventually break any mucus build-up in the sinuses.
Hum your favorite sing
Surprised to see such a remedy? Don’t be. This is scientifically proven that humming for at least one minute or more can help in alleviating a sinus headache. This works as humming increases airflow that encourages the draining of the sinuses. Therefore, when you have a headache, hum your favorite song to get relief.
Drink lots of water
Drinking fluids helps in thinning out mucus and thereby, draining the sinuses that can help in improving a sinus headache. Proper hydration keeps the sinuses moist and helps in feeling better. However, remember to take the correct drinks as caffeinated/carbonated drinks can dehydrate the body.
Try massaging
Apply gentle pressure to the painful area with the index finger or thumb. Gently massage the forehead in a circular motion to relieve out tightened muscles as well as improves blood flow.
Unclench the jaw
Putting extra pressure on the scalp can make a headache worse. Hence, unclench the jaw muscles as well as remove any hat, hair band/clip, or headband that pulls the nerves and makes the sinus headache worse.
Get some rest
This is what we all want to do when we have a throbbing headache. If the headache is getting worse in a particular environment, move away from that situation, and take ample rest. After a goodnight’s sleep, you are more likely to feel better. However, sleeping too much can trigger a headache.
Keep the head elevated
It’s true that sleep can relieve out sinus pressure, however, sleeping with the head elevated is more important. Keeping the head elevated with some pillows under the head prevents mucus buildup in the sinuses that can prevent sinus headache.
Indian Home Remedies for Sinus Headache
Basil leaves, mint leaves, cloves, and ginger
The herbs-basil and mint- are used as a natural headache reliever as these herbs are rich in analgesic effects. Whereas, cloves can provide a cooling effect that can relieve your sinus headaches. Moreover, ginger can reduce inflammation and help in getting relief. Hence, mix these ingredients and prepare kaadha to drink.
Ginger and honey
The spicy root-ginger- can reduce inflammation throughout the body and eventually decreases soreness in the throat or the head. Hence, grate some ginger and mix it to prepare some tea. Moreover, add a few drops of honey to the tea for a soothing effect.
Jal Neti
This is an Ayurvedic remedy that helps in reducing headaches by removing mucus and opening up the nasal airways. Moreover, this can also treat sinusitis and permanently help in getting relief from a headache.
Turmeric and ginger
The most common ingredient used for preparing almost any Indian meal is turmeric. Turmeric contains large amounts of antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory benefits. Brewing half teaspoon of turmeric with some spicy ginger root into a cup of tea can loosen out mucus, relieve out sinus pressure and thereby, reduce a headache.
Pungent spices
The spices in an Indian kitchen are not only full of flavors but also therapeutic benefits. For instance, cayenne pepper is rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties while lemon juice or apple cider vinegar is rich in antioxidants. Hence, taking these spices can help in dissolving mucus stored in the sinuses and get relief from a headache.
Cinnamon and honey
Rich in anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon can reduce inflammation and eventually headaches. Whenever you have a throbbing headache due to sinus, mix some cinnamon powder with honey to treat various symptoms of sinusitis. Don’t feel like consuming cinnamon? You can also make a paste with water and apply it on the forehead.
Outlook
The symptoms of sinusitis can cause pain and discomfort. Hence, a combination of decongestants and pain relievers with some home remedies can help in alleviating symptoms including a headache.
However, if the pain doesn’t subside within a day or two or gets worse, then seek medical treatment. Some conditions require the ENT doctor to cure the underlying cause such as deviated septum or nasal polyps to relieve the headache. If you want to know more about the surgery, you can contact Pristyn Care clinic or book an online consultation with the doctor today!
Also read: How to tell the difference between sinus and migraine?
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