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What is the Best Home Remedy for a Sinus Headache?
A sinus headache develops when the air-filled spaces in the head become inflamed and swollen. Symptoms may include pain in the forehead, cheeks, or across the nose. Fever, nasal discharge, and facial swelling may also occur. Treatment is aimed at the root cause of the inflammation. While over-the-counter and prescription medications may be available to treat individual symptoms, many people prefer to look for a home remedy for a sinus headache. Such home remedies may include lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, or the use of herbal supplements.
A popular home remedy for a sinus headache involves a variety of lifestyle changes, with each patient choosing the method which works best for the individual. A brief nap or a cool towel applied to the nasal area often works wonders. Bathing the feet in hot water while applying a cold compress to the head works well for some. Sitting in a room with a humidifier can help to add moisture to the sinus cavity and is a popular home remedy for a sinus headache.
A relatively easy home remedy for a sinus headache involves slight dietary modification. For instance, eating a jalapeno pepper will often clear the sinuses right away, thus relieving the headache. Certain foods are known for triggering sinus headaches and should be avoided or used in moderation by patients who are susceptible to developing sinus headaches. Some of these foods include fried foods, sugar, and tomatoes.
Herbal treatment is becoming an increasingly popular home remedy for a sinus headache. One option is to add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a humidifier in order to loosen congestion. Boosting the immune system can help to prevent sinus problems. Some immune-boosting vitamins and herbs include vitamin C, echinacea, and ginseng. A tea made from licorice root and ginger may help to reduce inflammation and ease the symptoms of a sinus headache.
There are several food and herbal combinations that can be applied directly to the forehead as a home remedy for a sinus headache. Cinnamon can be mixed with water and applied to the forehead to provide relief from a sinus headache. Peppermint or eucalyptus oils can be applied to the temples to provide headache relief as well. Some people do experience side effects such as a burning sensation on the skin after employing these methods, so it may be wise to test on a small area of skin before using these items to help with sinus headache relief.
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![A cross section of the head, including the sinuses.]()
By: turhanerbasA cross section of the head, including the sinuses. -
![Spicy foods, like jalapeno peppers, might help clear the sinuses and relieve a headache.]()
By: epanthaSpicy foods, like jalapeno peppers, might help clear the sinuses and relieve a headache. -
![Tea made from licorice root is a home remedy for a sinus headache.]()
By: Hayati KayhanTea made from licorice root is a home remedy for a sinus headache. -
![Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air might provide relief from symptoms of a sinus headache.]()
By: StockPhotosArtUsing a humidifier to add moisture to the air might provide relief from symptoms of a sinus headache. -
![Some home remedies may be helpful for relieving the pressure build up in the sinus cavity.]()
By: Innovated CapturesSome home remedies may be helpful for relieving the pressure build up in the sinus cavity. -
![A sinus headache occurs when the air-filled spaces in the head become inflamed.]()
By: Junial EnterprisesA sinus headache occurs when the air-filled spaces in the head become inflamed. -
![Both bacterial and viral sinus infections can cause a sinus headache.]()
By: lightwavemediaBoth bacterial and viral sinus infections can cause a sinus headache.
Discussion Comments
A hot shower can surprisingly relieve sinus headaches. I think the steam works like a humidifier to relieve sinus symptoms. This is usually the first thing I do when I get a sinus headache. If this doesn't work, then I take a decongestant or pain reliever.
@turkay1-- Sometimes home remedies are much better for sinus headaches and migraines.
I think lavender oil will help but you might want to dilute it first or it might irritate your skin.
I've personally found cold and hot compresses to be helpful. I think both can relieve headaches. For sinus headaches specifically, I use a nasal spray or clean my nose with salt water. Both are great because they relieve congestion which takes away some of the pressure in the sinuses.
I've been taking pain relievers for my sinus headache symptoms. Pain relievers help but I think I need to do something more. Plus, too many pain relievers give me an upset stomach. I'm going to try the essential oil remedy. I have some lavender oil at home, I'm going to apply it on my forehead. Thanks!
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