Pathophysiology: Understanding Sinus Pressure
source: Healthline
Sinus pressure, often a symptom of sinusitis, arises from inflammation and swelling of the sinus membranes, leading to mucus buildup and obstruction of sinus drainage. This blockage can create a pressure differential, resulting in pain and discomfort. Nobody wants that! Common causes include viral infections like the common cold, allergies, and bacterial infections. Be sure to learn more about headaches and jaw pain, as these are often experienced with sinus pressure.
*This article is only meant to be educational and informative. It is not meant to provide medical advice. Check out our class listed directly below before continuing on to read this article.
Where Can You Find Your Sinus Cavities?
Maxillary Sinuses are on each side of your nose, near the cheekbones.
Frontal Sinuses are above the eyes, near your forehead
Ethmoid Sinuses are on each side of the bridge of your nose, near your eyes. There are three small pairs of the ethmoid sinuses.
Sphenoid Sinuses are behind the eyes, deeper into your skull
Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Sinus Pressure
Inflammation and Swelling
When the nasal passages become inflamed, the sinus membranes also swell and become inflamed, which is a common reaction to infections or allergies.
Obstruction of Sinus Drainage
The inflammation causes the sinus ostia (openings) to narrow or become blocked, preventing normal drainage of mucus and air.
Negative Pressure Development
As air is gradually absorbed from the sinuses, the blocked ostia can result in a relative negative pressure, or vacuum effect, within the sinus cavity. This pressure imbalance often leads to discomfort and pain in the affected area.
Mucus Production and Bacterial Growth
The lack of drainage can also lead to mucus buildup and create a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially leading to a secondary bacterial infection.
Positive Pressure
In some cases, such as with barosinusitis (pressure-related sinus issues), the reverse can happen, where increased pressure from outside causes a buildup of positive pressure within the sinus, further irritating the lining.
Key Factors Contributing to Sinus Pressure
Infections
Viral infections, such as the common cold, are a leading cause of sinusitis and the resulting sinus pressure that many people experience.
Allergies
Allergic reactions can trigger inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to obstruction and pressure.
Anatomical Issues
Conditions like a deviated septum or nasal polyps can also physically obstruct sinus drainage, causing pressure and discomfort.
Barotrauma
Changes in pressure, such as during flying or diving, can cause a pressure differential between the sinuses and the surrounding environment, leading to sinus squeeze.
Helping Our Clients Find Relief from Sinus Pressure
Massage therapy is an effective non-invasive approach to alleviating sinus pressure. We can also encourage home care, including:
Aromatherapy
Nasal spray or neti pot
Steam inhalation / humidifier
Hydration
Gentle yoga
Warm compress
In addition to using your hands during a massage therapy session, we also encourage you to learn and use specialized tools or products for helping your clients find relief from jaw pain. We encourage you to read these articles and learn more about using Heated Bamboo and CBD in your massage therapy practice. Further, we recommend integrating mindfulness or meditition into your massage therapy sessions to further facilitate relaxation and stress relief. Be sure to seek education and gain proper training before using tools and products in your massage therapy practice.
More than a Single Pain Point
More often than not, when someone experiences sinus pressure, they may also experience jaw pain or headaches. Want to learn more about the pathophysiology and underlying mechanisms of jaw pain? Read this article. Want to learn more about headaches? Read this article. Further, some people may experience chronic sinus pressure from underlying conditions. Read more about how we can provide comfort and care for clients who are living with chronic illnesses.