Sinus Pain and Weather: Understanding the Connection

Changes in air pressure can cause sinus pain. The pain is caused by the difference between the air pressure within the sinuses and that of the outside air. A rapid drop in barometric pressure, often brought on by storm fronts, can sometimes cause severe headaches or fatigue.

Sinusitis

• Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that leads to pain. According to the Harvard Medical School, 20 million Americans a year suffer from at least one bout of sinusitis. This pain can occur in the forehead, behind the eyes, over the cheeks or at the top of the head.

Function

• Air gets trapped in the sinuses. Differences in air pressure trapped inside and pressure coming from outside causes pain by pushing on the bones within the sinus cavities.

Significance

• According to Weather.com, damp, cold weather, like a rainy day, can intensify sinus pain by introducing low pressure into the air.

Short-term Treatment

• According to Steven Dankle, otolaryngologist, sinusitis sufferers can use a topical nasal decongestant once or twice daily a couple of days before a storm front passes through to prevent pain.

Considerations

• Most cases of sinusitis can be easily treated. Pressure changes from rainy days only cause minor discomfort in most people.