Sinus pain and sinusitis

Tips to manage sinus pain and sinusitis

To ease sinus congestion and pain, there are a few things you can do:

• Drink plenty of fluids to help thin the mucus in the sinuses

• Apply a warm, moist washcloth to the face several times a day

• Inhale steam 2–4 times per day

• Use a humidifier to keep the air moist

• Use a saline nasal spray several times a day as this can remove thick mucus and help the sinus to drain

• Avoid sudden changes in temperature or bending your head down

• Take simple analgesics such as paracetamol or Ibuprofen to ease pain or fever

• Avoid smoke, pollutants, and other irritants, and avoid flying when congested

When to see your doctor

For most people, sinus pain will ease once the congestion has cleared up. Consult your doctor if you have:

• Symptoms lasting longer than 10-14 days, or a cold that becomes worse after 7 days
• A severe sinus headache that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain relief medications
• A fever
• Symptoms that persist after taking a full course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor
• Any changes in your vision during a sinus infection