Sinus pain is a condition that most people experience at one time or another. In some cases, the pain is relatively minor and can be treated quickly and effectively. Other causes of sinus pain are more serious and require more aggressive care to correct the problem.
Swelling is often the root of sinus pain. When the sinuses become inflamed, the cilia cannot move the mucus. As a result, bacteria accumulate and increase swelling. Unless the problem is treated right away, there's a good chance that sinus pain will be accompanied by a feeling like your head is full. The ears can also suffer as the infection affects the function of the Eustachian tubes. Antibiotics will often help kill the infection and allow healing to begin.
Bacterial or viral infections are not the only common causes of sinus pain. Allergies can also often lead to severe discomfort in the nasal passages. Treating the allergy, as well as avoiding the allergens that created the pain, will help relieve congestion and reduce swelling.
Swimming and diving can also cause sinus pressure and congestion. Just as some people are subject to ear infections when water enters the ear canal, others can develop nasal congestion and a runny nose after contact with salt water or even the chlorinated water found in swimming pools. Being careful when using nasal packing can help minimize the chances of developing an infection and put up with a lot of sinus pain.
Smoking cigars or cigarettes can also lead to the development of sinus pain. The reaction varies, and some people experience painful dryness in the nasal passages. Others find that the smoke irritates sensitive tissue and causes swelling that can be very uncomfortable. Avoiding the use of tobacco or staying away from closed spaces where people smoke is usually enough to prevent nasal congestion.
Along with external stimuli, sinus pain can be caused by a physical condition. Some people have growths in the nasal passages and cavity that are known as polyps. If the polyps expand enough to block the passageways, it can cause severe congestion of the sinuses and cause an infection to develop. Surgery can be used to correct the situation and prevent the polyps from causing any pain.
With any type of sinus pain, it's important to seek medical attention quickly. Delaying treatment only allows the source of the sinus condition to worsen. By seeking early treatment, the severity and duration of pain can be significantly minimized and allow people suffering from breast pain to continue living.