Sinus pressure headaches are usually a dull and throbbing pain that occurs around or in the eyes. This is by caused by swelling in the sinus cavities. Cold weather and even bending down can make the pain worse. Furthermore, sinus headaches may mimic tension and migraine headaches making a positive diagnosis difficult.

Sinus pressure headaches offer several symptoms:

• Pain behind the eyes
• Face is sensitive or painful to the touch
• Generally not feeling up to par
• Postnasal drip
• Sore throat
• Yellow or green mucus
• Chronic tiredness

Sinus pressure headaches can be caused by a respiratory infection, like a cold, the flu, or allergies. Healthy sinus cavities allow air to flow freely and mucus to drain as needed. When the sinus become swollen and blocked mucus cannot drain. This is the perfect recipe for bacteria, viruses, and even fungi to grow, and they can grow fast.

Colds are the most common cause, but any problem that causes sinuses to stop draining can turn into sinusitis. For a doctor to properly diagnose sinus headaches he will look inside your nose to check for blockages and mucus discharge. He will shine a light to aid in diagnosing the issue.

Once diagnosed with sinusitis it is advised the underlying cause be treated. Sinus infections are treated with antibiotics. If it a viral problem then some lifestyle changes can help relieve symptoms. Keeping the nasal passages moist is important to increase comfort level. When at work carry a saline spray, and use it often. At home a humidifier will help keep the air in your home damp, especially in the winter.

Your doctor may prescribe nasal corticosteroids to reduce swelling. Steroids are effective in lessening sinus headache symptoms. Antihistamines are effective in reducing discomfort, but only if your sinusitis is caused by allergies. Decongestants are also a good remedy when fighting sinus pressure headaches, and are available over-the-counter at drugstores. However, do not overuse these medications because they become counterproductive after the prescribed period passes.

As mentioned, sinus pressure headaches often impersonate migraines. Triptans is a treatment for migraines, and has been used successfully to treat severe sinus headaches. If your sinus condition does not respond to medicines your doctor may recommend that you undergo endoscopic sinus surgery. This procedure is used to remove bone spurs and growths.

There is a new procedure called balloon rhinoplasty. A balloon is inserted into the nasal passages and then blown up while inside the nose. This expands the nasal passages, therefore promoting draining and free breathing. Many times this can replace the surgical procedure that is commonly used to achieve the same result.

In conclusion, sinus pressure headaches are typically a dull throbbing pain behind or around the eyes. Sore throat, fatigue, post nasal drip and colored mucus are symptoms of sinus headaches. While decongestants can be helpful in relieving symptoms it is important to not overuse them, because they can become ineffective. Bacterial sinus infections are treated with antibiotics. The severest cases of sinusitis can mean surgery to remove polyps or other obstacles in the nose.