The problem isn’t the sinuses themselves. They’re just hollow air spaces within the bones between your eyes, behind your cheekbones, and in the forehead. They make mucus, which keep the inside of your nose moist. That, in turn, helps protect against dust, allergens, and pollutants.
However, if the tissue in your nose is swollen from allergies, a cold, or something in the environment, it can block the sinus passages. Your sinuses can’t drain, and you may feel pain.
Sinuses are also are responsible for the depth and tone of your voice. This explains why you sound like husky when you’re all stuffed up.
There are eight sinus cavities in total. They are paired, with one of each in the left and right side of the face.
Blockages
Each sinus has a narrow spot, called the transition space (ostium), which is an opening that’s responsible for drainage. If a bottleneck or blockage happens in the transition of any of your sinuses, mucus backs up. About 10% of people have one. It narrows that transition space.
Your doctor can prescribe medications to control your symptoms. If you have sinus problems and allergies, you should avoid irritants such as tobacco smoke and strong chemical odors.
Most people have experienced sinus pain and pressure at some point in their lives and most recover without any prescribed medications. But there are a number of natural sinus pain remedies that can offer relief, whether your symptoms are due to the common cold, allergies, or a sinus infection (sinusitis).
For sinus pain relief, flush your nasal passages and take a steam as hot water vapour can help moisten the sinuses.
Staying hydrated helps your body in many ways, including keeping your sinuses moist. Drink water throughout the day, and make sure to steer clear of caffeinated or alcoholic drinks, which can cause dehydration, Graham says. Spicy foods such as mustard, hot peppers, curry, horseradish and wasabi may help clear sinuses.
Allergy-proof your home as they can make sinus pain worse.
Don’t ask for antibiotics right away. Using antibiotics indiscriminately can lead to antibiotic resistance and the development of superbugs, plus they may not be effective in treating most cases of sinusitis.
