What Measures Can be Taken at Home to Relieve Sinus Pain and When Should You See a Doctor?

Sinus pain is uncomfortable and annoying at best, unbearably painful at worst. When sinus pain hits, you may be left wondering if it warrants a visit to the doctor, or if your symptoms can be treated at home. What measures can be taken at home to relieve sinus pain? When should you see a doctor?

Sinus pain has a variety of causes, including allergies, colds and sinus infections. Sinus pain can rear its ugly head in many different ways; pressure across the face, sharp pain in the sinus cavities, headaches or even toothaches are all signs the sinuses are blocked or inflamed.

Before going to a doctor, you should take stock of your sinus symptoms to determine if an office visit or at-home remedies are better suited. If your sinus pain is mild, at home remedies to try first include:

• Saline nasal spray, which can thin mucus while reducing inflammation in the nasal passages
• Cold mist humidifier, which adds moisture to the air and relieves sinus irritation from dry air
• Nasal irrigation, like a Neti pot, to clear congestion
• Steam, like a warm, steamy bathroom, to loosen blockages and improve breathing
• Over-the-counter allergy medications to alleviate allergy symptoms which can lead to more inflammation and pain
• Over-the-counter pain medications, which work to reduce inflammation and pain at the same time
• Drinking plenty of fluids, while avoiding drinks that dehydrate the body, such as alcohol or caffeine

While sinus pain can be treated at home, moderate to severe sinus pain should be treated in an office setting under the care of your doctor. If your mild symptoms don’t clear up within 10-14 days, it’s time to schedule an appointment so you can be assessed for a sinus infection. If your sinus pain goes away within that time frame but reappears multiple times a year, you should see a doctor to be checked for chronic sinusitis. Other signs that indicate a doctor’s visit is necessary include symptoms that worsen, a fever or difficulty breathing. You may need antibiotics or other prescription medications in order to treat and alleviate your sinus pain.

Sinus pain slowing you down? The ENT doctors at Biltmore ENT can assess and diagnose your sinus issues, so you can receive treatment and leave your pain behind. Call (602) 560-1085 to schedule an appointment.