A sinus infection generally occurs when the nasal cavities become infected, inflamed and swollen. Medically this infection, namely sinus is known as rhinosinusitis.

Usually caused by a virus, the sinus infection often persists, even after other upper respiratory symptoms are gone. Other conditions that can contribute to sinus pain are allergies, nasal polyps, and tooth infections.

What sinuses do
Sinuses are a part of the nasal air membrane, which produces mucus.

The mucus passes through the nose and sweeps away dust particles and other foreign objects which enter the nasal passage. The mucus washes the nasal membranes and cleans the area of any bacteria or air pollutants. The mucus finally, flows back into the throat and it is swallowed, and then digested, where any harmful bacteria or foreign matter is destroyed. We generally do not notice the mucus flow, as it is a natural bodily process.

Sinusitis and whether it is dangerous
The inflammation of the sinuses is termed as ‘sinusitis’. An acute case begins with a cold, flu or an allergy attack, this further causes swelling in the nasal membranes and mucus production is increased. The membranes tend to become so swollen, that the tiny openings, from the sinuses, become blocked. Abnormal pressure tends to develop, when the mucus and air, cannot flow freely between the nose and sinuses. This can further create a pressure pain in different parts. The pressure pain may be felt in between the eyes and behind the eyes, in the forehead, in the cheeks, face, and in the upper teeth.

The blocked sinus cavity is filled with mucus; this becomes a great place for bacterial growth. If a person`s cold lasts more than a week or so, then the mucus starts turning smelly and greenish yellow in color. This indicates that a bacterial infection has taken over. During this time, the pressure and pain, in the forehead and face can be quite acute. This is called bacterial sinusitis.

Chronic sinusitis generally occurs, when the sinus opening is blocked, for a prolonged period of time. Headaches are less prominent during this stage; however, there is nasal congestion and unpleasant nasal secretions. In some cases, sinusitis comes from infection in the upper teeth that extends into sinuses.

The sinus pain pressure points that help to relieve the pain
The sinus pain may be unbearable at times. However one should be aware of the sinus pressure points, in order to relieve himself of the throbbing pain. In some cases, medication may help in reducing the sinus pain and pressure. If medication doesn’t work, you can use the different acupressure points on the face to reduce the pain.

There are different sinus pain pressure points:

Between the eyes
The top most pressure point is located in between the eyes, and just above the bridge of the nose. You can use your finger and apply a bit of pressure on this point for around two minutes. This point helps in draining the excess mucus and helps to reduce the pressure from a cold.

On either side of the nostrils
These points are found just to the side of the nostrils; you can use your fingers and apply pressure, gently, on these two points. Keep applying pressure on these two points, in order to allow the sinuses to drain out. These sinus pain pressure points can help in preventing inflammation and relieve the sinus pain to some extent. This pressure point is also helpful, in the case of pressure, pain behind the cheeks. This also helps in preventing respiratory illness.

Bridge of the nose
You can find a spot, at the corner of the eyes and on top of the nose. Use your two index fingers and apply pressure on the spot for about five minutes. This is the spot where the pain associated with sinus is found. You would immediately feel some relief, from the pressure behind your eyes. You may give yourself a sinus massage as well. Simply place your fingers, and gently rub in a circular motion for a few minutes.

Under the cheeks
This point can be found by placing your finger on the cheekbone and feeling the bone there. This point is probably very delicate. You may press in and upwards against your cheek. If you are suffering from a toothache or sinus pressure around the cheek, this point should be massaged in order to get some relief.

The philtrum
This spot is found just under the nose and on top of the mouth. You may press your finger onto the point and then upwards to get this pressure point stimulated for maximum benefit. This allows the sinus to drain the extra mucus.

Eyebrows
This point is situated on the ridge of the eyebrows. Trace the ridge of the eyebrows with your thumb and start applying pressure, starting from the inner ridge and then moving outwards. Continue with this same process for about two minutes. You would start feeling some relief in no time.

These acupressure points generally relieve pain and pressure arising from sinus. It is a known self-therapy. However, it is always better to seek expert advice or allow a professional to help you get the best benefit out of acupressure.