What should you know about severe sinus pressure?

Inflamed sinus lining can block normal drainage and create a feeling of fullness around the cheeks, brow, nose or eyes. Bending forward may make the pressure more noticeable, and congestion or thick mucus may accompany it. Chronic sinusitis can cause symptoms that recur or linger. Migraine may cause facial pain without blocked sinuses and can include nausea or sensitivity to light, so the location of pain alone cannot identify the cause.

Rest in a quiet room, drink fluids and try a saline nasal spray or rinse if you can use one safely. A warm compress across the face may feel soothing. Avoid smoke and strongly scented products. Use pain relief according to the label and ask a pharmacist about interactions or unsuitable ingredients. Keep a note of congestion, triggers, headache features and how symptoms change; this can help a clinician distinguish sinusitis from migraine.

Seek prompt care when pressure is severe, repeatedly returning, worsening, or accompanied by fever or unusual discharge. Get urgent help for swelling around an eye, vision changes, a sudden severe headache, weakness, confusion, a stiff neck, persistent vomiting or difficulty breathing. New severe facial pain after an injury, or pain with marked dental swelling, also warrants timely assessment.

Ask whether the pattern suggests sinusitis, chronic sinusitis or migraine, whether you need an examination, and which treatments are safe for you. Tell the clinician about light sensitivity, nausea, nasal blockage, fever and any previous episodes.