Sometimes sinus headaches are so severe, you wish your head could be removed from your neck to stop the pain. Though many are less severe, they can last days or weeks and make life a struggle. In Winter, heated rooms dry our mucous membranes and, if prone to nasal congestion, can create these headaches. Allergies are generally the culprit in Spring and Autumn. Change in barometric pressure throughout the year can also be a trigger. Pain is usually around eye orbits and forehead, with tension in the neck and shoulders. Chills, fatigue and loss of appetite are also common symptoms.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective there are 3 basic causes of sinus headaches, which are sometimes combined.
- wind-cold invasion
- wind-heat invasion
- dampness
To treat sinus headaches, one acupuncture session can open the nasal and sinus passages and bring instant relief! To prevent recurrence, herbal formulas taken daily are most beneficial. I am not listing individual herbs because, the synergy of them combined in a formula increases their effectiveness. Consult with your TCM practitioner for best individualized results.
If you are prone to sinus headaches, foods which create dampness are to be avoided:
- alcohol
- dairy
- sugar
- fried foods
- very hot and spicy foods
If you are unable to get to an acupuncturist, do it yourself tips:
- one drop of spearmint essential oil behind earlobes (not for children or nursing moms)
- long hot shower
- soup with onion and garlic
- humidifiers in bedrooms
- air purifiers in home and office
If you have other tips, please share!
