Did you know that there is a difference between a head cold and a sinus infection? While a head cold may produce similar symptoms to sinus infections, many people suffer from chronic sinus problems that do not respond to cold and flu treatments. Next time you feel congested, consider these four causes of sinus infection pain and how to treat it.

What is a Sinus Infection?

A sinus infection occurs when fluid build up in the nasal cavities causes germs to breed within the sinuses leaving them infected, swollen, and inflamed. There are four different types of sinus infections including acute sinusitis lasting up to 4 weeks, subacute sinusitis lasting 4 to 12 weeks, recurrent acute sinusitis occurring 4 or more times annually, and chronic sinusitis lasting more than 12 weeks at a time.

What Causes Sinus Infection Pain?

There are several factors that can cause sinus infections ranging from external, environmental conditions to internal body function. In general, most sinus infections are caused by a virus or bacteria. However, other factors can contribute to the infection as well.

The common cold is the most common culprit of sinus infection pain. This is because it causes fluid build-up that is susceptible to infection due to the already weakened immune system.

Nasal or seasonal allergies are also a common cause of sinus infections due to high inflammation in the area. This creates the ideal environment for fungus or bacteria to breed.

Beyond external factors, individual anatomy may increase the chances of having chronic sinus infections. A deviated septum or nasal polyps are the most common conditions that correlate with a sinus infection. This is because these conditions create blockages in the nasal cavity that increase the fluid build-up in the area. Other anatomy-related factors include narrow nasal passages or even having an extra sinus!

Finally, climate may play a role in sinus infections. Throughout the year, different humidity or air pressure conditions can impact the flow of mucus in the body creating an imbalance in the sinuses. This can be especially apparent in areas that have a mix of fluctuating humidity and air inversion.

What are Possible Symptoms?

Sinus infections can cause several uncomfortable symptoms to arise in the nose, head, and throat. Symptoms of acute or chronic sinus problems include the following:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny nose or postnasal drip
  • Facial pain including the forehead, sides of the nose, upper jaw and teeth, and between the eyes.
  • Headaches
  • Earaches
  • Toothaches
  • Sore throat or cough
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Bad Breath

The Treatments

Fortunately, there are many natural remedies for sinus infections that can help reduce or eliminate sinus infection pain. While a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or steroids for sinus infections, at-home treatments can prove just as effective in treating and preventing the condition. In fact, for chronic sinus problems, extended use of harsh treatments such as antibiotics can actually harm the body’s ability to naturally fight off the infection and improve the condition long term.

Nasal Irrigation

One of the best treatments for sinus infection pain is nasal irrigation. This method utilizes a specialized nasal tool called a Neti pot and mineral salt solutions designed to naturally flush out excess fluids, reduce congestion, and improve sinus infection pain.

Neti pots can come in many different forms, shapes, sizes, and materials for use in any kind of nose from children to adults. To treat sinus congestion, a Neti pot is filled with a warm mineral solution and inserted into one side of the nose. It is tipped into the sinuses and should drain out the other nostril as it works its way through the nasal cavity.

Mineral solutions generally include special kinds of salt such as French Atlantic Grey Sea Salt, or essential oils such as Virginia cedarwood, Palmarosa, Green myrtle, Fir balsam, and Rosemary.

The Baraka® Ceramic Neti Pot is a beautiful, high-fired ceramic piece and handcrafted in the U.S. These pots are 100% lead-free, safe and non-toxic, use food-grade ceramic glazes and durable stoneware ceramic. They are lightweight and easy to use and dishwasher safe!

Herbal Remedies

There are many herbal remedies that are proven to reduce inflammation and treat bacterial and fungal infections. When dealing with a sinus infection, herbal remedies can be an effective way to reduce symptoms and discomfort brought on by nasal congestion.

One of the most effective herbal remedies for sinus infection pain is the use of essential oils. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that can provide many health benefits. Some essential oils are meant for topical use while others can be ingested or inhaled. It is important to know what application is appropriate for the types of essential oils you are using because of the concentration.

Essential oils that are best for sinus infection pain include green myrtle, inula graveolens, rosemary, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender. Herbal teas, tinctures, and supplements may also help fight infection and soothe symptoms from sinus infections.

Aromatherapy

Finally, aromatherapy can be a great way to combat sinus infection pain and congestion. This can be especially helpful for sinus infections that began as a cold or that were brought on by climate or allergens. According to the Oxford dictionary, aromatherapy is “the use of aromatic plant extracts and essential oils in massage or baths.”

In general, a mixture of essential oils and steam is used to either directly or indirectly clear the sinuses. Nasal steam oils can be added to boiling water and inhaled directly to drain congestion and clear the nasal passages. Alternatively, essential oils can be added to a diffuser or humidifier for prolonged exposure to beneficial stimulants.

No matter what the cause is, there is no denying that sinus infections can cause serious, painful symptoms that require careful treatment. Now that you know some of the best (and gentle) treatments for your sinus infection pain, you are armed with the tools you need to prevent and conquer your next sinus infection!