Every day, from Monday to Friday, an average of six million people suffer from sinus pressure or a toothache And while it’s tempting to just ignore the problem and hope it goes away, a toothache or sinus pressure is one of those pests that require active extermination. But what’s the difference between the two? To understand that, you’ll have to know more about both.
What is Sinus Pressure?
Sinus pressure is a problem originating from the sinuses. These sinuses are small pockets or air-filled cavities in the skull that provide a cushion for your facial bones. They also help trap dust and pollen that can easily irritate the nose and throat. There are four pairs of these sinuses: one pair on each cheek, one between your eyes, and another on top of your nasal passages near your forehead. Only the ones behind the cheeks and eyes are considered functional. When the sinuses become blocked due to allergies or a cold, you will feel discomfort around your cheekbones and eyes. This is why most people associate sinus pressure with allergies or a cold; however, even if you haven’t experienced these problems, sinus pressure can happen to anyone.
What Can Cause a Sinus Infection?
Various factors cause a sinus infection. The infected area can either be the nasal passage, known as sinusitis, or the sinuses when fungi, viruses, or bacteria infect them. If a sinus infection is left untreated, it can cause a fever and nasal blockage. For this reason, if you have sinus pressure and it gets worse within 24 hours, seek medical attention, as you could be suffering from a sinus infection. Additionally, Other causes might be an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses, blocked nasal passages, or back pains. If you suffer from sinus pressure and it’s stubborn, make an appointment with your doctor to rule out possible health issues that may be causing this problem.
In some cases, it’s caused by constipation or hormonal changes in women that lead to swelling of the mucous membranes in the nose. You might want to check with your doctor if you only get sinus pressure during certain times of the month. The good news is that this kind of pressure can be relieved by proper care. Regular flushing, taking decongestants, and drinking lots of water will help you feel better. But remember: don’t self-medicate. See a doctor first to rule out any other causes of your discomfort.
Treatment of sinus pressure starts with an evaluation of the cause. This consists of looking for new symptoms or the onset of other symptoms. Some common symptoms that develop will be difficulty breathing or inhaling through your nose and headaches and feeling tired. Sinus pressure can also cause a cough. While there are many causes for a cough, such as asthma or allergies, it is important to note that sinus congestion often leads to cough much more often than coughing from other causes. Treatment of sinus pressure can include the use of antihistamines, steroids such as prednisone, and many other medications. Often, a combination of medications will be needed for treatment.
Some people prefer to use medical marijuana to treat their sinus pressure or congestion. However, marijuana is not recommended for children, pregnant women, and those who are currently taking prescription drugs. Discuss your medication habits with your doctor before beginning treatment.
Is there a Relation Between Sinuses and Toothaches?
On the other hand, toothaches are caused by cavities and gum diseases. If left untreated, these problems can cause severe tooth and jaw pain. It’s a very common problem, but you can avoid it by brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist every six months. The only way to stop toothaches is by removing the decay or infection that causes them. However, when it’s too late for that, you have to find ways to manage them until they completely disappear.
Antibiotics are the most common treatment for toothaches. If you don’t want to take medications, there are other ways to ease your discomfort. For toothaches caused by cavities, placing a piece of cloth soaked in warm salt water over the infected tooth can help ease the pain. Chewing on a clove of garlic may also work for some people. Most importantly, though, it’s best to seek treatment from your local dentist if the problem is persistent.
Sinus problems and toothaches may seem related, but they have different causes. Sinus pressure can also be cured by taking decongestants, brushing your teeth, and flushing them regularly with water. You can also see a doctor if you think it’s more than that. Remember: there’s no shame in seeking help and waiting to get better until they go away on their own because the pain you feel during this period is worth it.
