Pain Caused By Swelling In Sinus Cavities
- Discomfort produced by inflammation of skin of sinus cavities
- Worsens with blockage of sinus opening as inflammation produces vaccuum effect inside lumen
- Responds to decongestants, nasal saline and steam inhalation
Pain "Referred" From Outside The Sinus Cavities
- Discomfort produced by source outside of sinus cavities
- Can occur in cheeks or forehead over sinuses, but then spreads to back of neck or top of head (outside sinuses)
- Worsens with barometric changes, dehydration, dietary, strong odors and poor sleep.
- Responds to pain meds (ibuprofen/ acetaminophen), migraine meds, caffeine and sometime pseudoephedrine.
