There is a distinct facial pain that often is the first indication that a cold or flu has settled in the sinuses and an infection may be brewing. This burning pain in the cheek bones under the eyes and around the nose can appear to radiate down into the molar teeth suggesting the sufferer might be destined for that ever feared root canal.
This sinus pain can be accompanied by fever and either a stuffy or very runny nose. The nasal discharge often turns from white to yellow and even on to green. However, it is important to note that just because the discharge is yellow or green, an infection may not necessarily be present.
While a cold or flu will not respond to antibiotics, a sinus infection often requires antibiotic treatment. If the symptoms (pain, fever, discharge) persist more than a couple of days and/or worsen, the health care practitioner should be consulted.
The pain can be the worst of the symptoms to cope with. This can be helped with warm compresses, over the counter analgesics, rest and fluids. Never give aspirin (salicylic acid) to children under 12.
Comfort Measures
Nasal decongestants can be helpful, but directions must be followed carefully or a rebound effect can result. If switching brands of OTC medications, be sure to wait the directed time frame before taking any more medication. Read the labels carefully as most of these medications actually contain the same or similar ingredients and overdose can result.
A saline nasal spray can be effective in reducing nasal discharge or opening stuffy passages. Decongestant sprays can be very effective, but can be habit forming and overuse can cause a rebound (worsening) effect. Unless directed by a health care practitioner, these are best avoided. Using a neti pot can also be quite effective. Nasal sprays and neti pots are for individual use and should not be shared.
Drinking warm liquids such as soup, tea and even coffee can ease the facial pain. Chicken broth or soup can be very beneficial. Breathing in the steam from these liquids can help to ease breathing.
A humidifier can help, especially if the relative humidity and outdoor temperatures are low. If venturing outside, using a scarf to cover the mouth and nose can help to reduce the effects of cold air which can cause nasal passages to swell and breathing to be difficult.
Warm compresses can be placed on the face to help reduce pain and to ease the nasal passages. Use a wash cloth and wet it thoroughly with very warm water. Wring it out well, fold and place over the face. Repeat as necessary. Take care not to get the water so hot that it burns!
Drink plenty of liquids. Water, tea, soup and juices are best. The body needs the fluids to stay hydrated and to help flush the toxins from the system. Warm liquids can be very soothing to the mouth and throat which can become very dry. Hard candies can help to keep the mouth moistened. Mint flavorings can help to open stuffy nasal passages.
Aromatic ointments which contain eucalyptus and other essential oils may also help to soothe and open nasal passages. Follow directions and do not use internally or inside the nasal passages. They can be used on a handkerchief or pillow case or applied to the chest.
If antibiotics are ordered, complete the course even if all symptoms fade before it is finished. The prescription is designed to kill the bacteria which may continue to thrive after symptoms are gone.
