NE Valley Times

• Sinus infections and other illnesses are more common during the winter months. 

• Thirty-one million Americans suffer from sinus infections each year. 

• Using an air humidifier and frequently washing your hands can reduce the chances of getting a sinus infection.

Dr. Franklyn Gergits of Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center tells patients that pain and pressure in the face is a common symptom of a sinus infection.

"When a cranial nerve that provides sensation to the head and neck region is stimulated, it can cause pain or discomfort inside the sinuses," Gergits told NE Valley Times. "You can think of the sinuses as air-filled openings that we have above, between, below and behind the eyes. If that small drainage pathway closes down, then the pressure that's in the sinus is different from the atmosphere. So if there's a pressure differential, that might cause patients to feel facial pressure or facial pain and headaches.

"As far as medicines go, the traditional recommendations would be over-the-counter pain medications like Tylenol. Motrin can help reduce inflammation and help patients feel better. There is another over-the-counter medication called Sudafed; decongestants such as Afrin can also come in a nasal spray. But you have to be very careful with decongestants. They can increase heart rate and blood pressure."

Thirty-one million Americans suffer from sinus infections every year, experiencing symptoms such as congestion, a headache, pressure in the ears and sinuses, or a cough, according to Insider.

Sinus infections, common colds and the flu are more common during winter months, according to Heritage First ENT. One reason is because the air is typically drier during this time of year, which can dry out the mucus linings in the nose, causing an increased risk of infection and congestion. Warm air from electric heaters and fireplaces can also be irritating to the nasal passages. Cold and flu viruses can lead to sinus infections by causing inflammation.

Several simple steps can reduce the odds of developing sinus problems during the winter, according to Alabama ENT. Using an air humidifier or breathing in steam from a hot shower can help keep your nasal passages open and prevent congestion.

Washing your hands frequently, especially before eating or touching your face, can help prevent the spread of germs that might cause a cold, flu or other sickness. Using decongestants or nasal sprays can be effective, but they should not be used too frequently, or they could lead to swelling.

If you're interested in learning more about diagnosis or treatment of chronic sinusitis, please take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.