How to get rid of a sinus headache

A warm shower or a warm, damp cloth over the face may make pressure feel less intense. Keep the air comfortably humidified and avoid smoke or other irritants that can inflame the nose.

A sinus-type headache is usually felt as pressure around the cheeks, forehead, or bridge of the nose, sometimes with a blocked nose, facial tenderness, or thick mucus. Congestion can interfere with normal drainage and create a feeling of fullness.

A blocked or runny nose can occur with allergic rhinitis, a common cold, or chronic sinusitis. Migraine can also cause facial pressure, nausea, or sensitivity to light, so pain in the sinus area does not by itself identify the cause. Fever, cough, loss of smell, or recent exposure may point toward an infection such as COVID-19.

Rest, sip water regularly, and keep your head slightly raised when lying down. A saline nasal spray or rinse can loosen mucus; use sterile, distilled, or previously boiled and cooled water for a rinse, and clean the device after use.

Paracetamol or ibuprofen may help some adults when used according to the package directions and personal medical advice. Check before using ibuprofen if you have a stomach ulcer, kidney disease, are pregnant, or take medicines that affect bleeding. Avoid using decongestant nasal sprays for longer than the label allows, because congestion can rebound.

Arrange a clinician review if symptoms keep returning, persist beyond a short illness, or interfere with sleep and daily activities. The clinician can examine your nose and face and decide whether allergy treatment, another treatment, or testing is appropriate.

Get urgent medical help for a sudden, extremely severe headache, confusion, fainting, weakness, trouble speaking, a stiff neck, or a new headache after a head injury. Seek prompt assessment for swelling around an eye, vision changes, severe facial swelling, persistent vomiting, or a high fever with worsening facial pain.

In the UAE heat, marked thirst, dizziness, weakness, or very dark urine may signal dehydration or heat exhaustion rather than a sinus problem. Move to a cool place, drink fluids if you are alert and able to swallow, and obtain medical help if symptoms are severe or do not improve.

Ask whether the pattern fits sinus inflammation, allergy, migraine, or another cause; which pain reliever and nasal treatment suit your health; whether you need an examination or testing; and how long you should try home care before returning.