SE Valley Times

Sinus headaches are a real pain, especially this time of year when the weather is changing and leaves are falling.

These headaches can come on suddenly and ruin an entire day, and they can be more common than the common cold.

According to Dr. Brian Lee of the Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center, sinus headaches are so common because they come from either air or mucus getting trapped in sinuses when drainage pathways get plugged from inflammation due to allergies or a cold.

Dr. Brian Lee | Scottsdale Sinus & Allergy Center

“One of the best ways to try to quickly alleviate that would be to take a decongestant like a Sudafed. That helps shrink down some of that inflammation to get those sinuses to ventilate a little bit or relieve the pressure,” Lee told SE Valley Times.

But sometimes it isn’t that easy. Facial pain is common along with chronic sinusitis. Pressure from the sinus buildup creates headaches and facial pain. Sinus headaches also can cause pain in the jaw and teeth.

“When we start to get infections or inflammation in those cheek sinuses, they start to irritate those nerve roots of those upper teeth,” Lee said. “And that can actually feel like a toothache more than a typical sinus infection.”

The best way to treat a sinus infection is to first relieve the symptoms and then treat the infection, if you have one.

According to WebMD, inhaled nasal decongestants can be used for up to three days, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help. Decongestants can also raise blood pressure, so consult with a doctor before using them. Sinus surgery -- such as balloon sinuplasty or endoscopy -- might be recommended if you see an otolaryngologist.

Home remedies that can help sinus headaches and other sinus symptoms include using a humidifier or a saltwater nasal spray, along with drinking plenty of fluids.

Take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz  to find out how severe your sinus symptoms are and whether you could benefit from seeing a doctor at Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center.