Nasal & Sinus

Understanding Nasal and Sinus Pain

Is sinus pain negatively affecting your life? Millions of Americans suffer from a variety of nasal and sinus conditions, ranging from sinusitis to problems with polyps. These conditions cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Difficulty breathing.
• Nasal discharge.
• Pain or pins and needle sensations around the eyes, forehead and cheeks.
• Chronic fatigue.
• Pain emanating from the upper teeth.
• Constant headaches, which may vary from mild to migraine strength.
• Pressure build-up in the nose, forehead and sinus cavities.

Pinpointing the source of nasal problems is the first step to reducing pain, healing the condition and improving your quality of life.

What Does Sinus Pain Feel Like?

One of the hallmarks of sinus pain is an overwhelming pressure felt behind the face. The sensation can become worse when tilting your head, or resting on a pillow. The pressure may be severe enough to cause eye discomfort. When the sinuses press against the ocular cavities, you might experience a burning or tingling sensation on your eyeballs and sockets. You may also have the uncomfortable feeling that your ears are full.

Your nose, forehead and cheekbones could be tender and sore to the touch. In some cases, you’ll feel pain and pressure on your upper teeth, as if your nasal cavities are pressing against your palate. You could also feel a dull throbbing or occasionally stabbing pain within your sinuses.

What Is Sinusitis?

One of the most common nasal and sinus conditions is sinusitis, also referred to as rhinosinusitis. This is a swelling or inflammation of the tissue that lines the sinus and nasal area.  Sinusitis can be the result of a bacterial infection or a virus.

Ordinarily, the sinus cavity is filled with air. But when the sinus tissue is irritated, the cavity can become blocked and fill with fluid, which can lead to an infection. Colds, allergies, nasal polyps or a deviated septum can all cause sinus blockages.

Which Nasal and Sinus Treatment Is Right for Me?

Over-the-counter medications can work effectively for minor nasal and sinus conditions. For recurring sinus and nasal pain, be sure to see a medical doctor, so that a more effective treatment can be prescribed.

When chronic pain persists, prescription medication may be required to heal an infection. However, when structural issues cause persistent problems, a minimally-invasive procedure—such as balloon sinuplasty—may be the best option.

Expert Nasal and Sinus Treatments

Dr. Nguyen is a national expert in the treatment of nasal conditions, responsible for perfecting innovative and effective treatments like balloon sinuplasty. At Houston Sinus and Allergy, we utilize the newest technology and our extensive experience to find the best solution for the health of your nose and sinuses.

Contact our clinic at (832) 237-7777 to book an assessment with Dr. Nguyen. We also have an online form which you can fill out, allowing our office to respond quickly to your situation.