Many people suffer from chronic sinusitis – it’s estimated that one in ten individuals experience this condition, which can be very painful. Those sufferers who also wear glasses may be concerned that their specs could be causing the problem.
It’s very unlikely that wearing glasses alone will trigger sinusitis. However, it is true that wearing glasses can, in some cases, exacerbate the symptoms of a sinus problem or cause a headache or general facial discomfort. Keep reading to find out why this is the case and what you can do about it to make your everyday life more comfortable.
What Are Sinus Problems
The sinuses are air-filled cavities within the skull. We have four of them: the frontal pair is behind the forehead, and the maxillary sinuses are found behind the cheeks. When these cavities become inflamed or infected, it causes sinus issues, which may be painful.
Sinus problems can take a variety of different forms, ranging from sinus headaches to chronic sinusitis infections, and, for some, can be debilitating. If you’re suffering from sinus issues, it’s important to see a doctor who can properly diagnose the problem and prescribe medication and advice as needed.
What Can Trigger A Sinus Infection?
Sinusitis is often triggered by a simple cold virus. Allergies, smoking, and asthma can also make people more susceptible to the condition, and those who have nasal polyps (or other blockages in the nose) or who participate in watersports (such as swimming or diving) may also be more at risk. Sinusitis can also be triggered by an injury to the teeth, nose, or cheeks or an infection in the teeth or gums.
A condition that impacts the way the body gets rid of mucus – such as cystic fibrosis – can also make developing a sinus infection more likely.
Ways To Alleviate Sinus Problems For Glasses Wearers
Ensure Your Glasses Fit Properly
If your eyeglasses don’t fit properly, they’ll likely exacerbate any sinus problems you’re experiencing, and therefore ensuring the best fit possible is vital. When choosing new glasses, it’s a great idea to visit your ophthalmologist, who will measure your face and help you find a pair of specs that fit perfectly and be comfortable enough to wear every day.
If your current glasses have suddenly started causing you sinus pain, it’s worth a return visit to your ophthalmologist, who may be able to make the adjustments you need, saving you the expense of shelling out for a new pair.
Consult Your Healthcare Professional
If you are experiencing any sinus issues, it’s important to visit your doctor or healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis. They will also be able to advise you regarding the likelihood that it’s your specs causing the problems. A case of sinusitis may require a course of antibiotics, and you may find, once you’re better, that your spectacles no longer cause you any sinus discomfort.
Adjusting the Nose Pads
Making a small change to how the nose pads of your glasses sit against your nose can also be an effective way of relieving the pressure that can make sinus problems worse. If your glasses don’t feature nose pads or can’t be adjusted, tightening the temple hinges can also be effective. You can either have a go at doing this yourself or pop into your ophthalmologist, who’ll usually be able to do this for you.
Weighted Socks
Obviously, these aren’t the kind you put on your feet! There are now socks on the market that fit on the ends of your glass’s arms that are very slightly weighted. This works as a counterbalance, effectively relieving the pressure of the frames on your nose. As a bonus, these types of socks will also help prevent dents forming on your nose and glasses slippage. They’re an affordable well to relieve sinus pain or pressure on the face that may be causing you problems.
Other Self-Help Ways To Alleviate The Symptoms Of Sinusitis
As well as ensuring that your specs aren’t putting any pressure on your face that could exacerbate the symptoms of sinusitis, there are some other self-help steps you can take to help if the condition strikes or has been ongoing for some time.
- Avoid alcohol, which can make the symptoms worse
- Take care of your teeth – dental infections are linked to sinusitis
- Stay away from anything you’re allergic to
- Avoid areas where people smoke
- Stop smoking
The Final World: Glasses And Sinus Problems
While it’s unlikely that wearing glasses alone will cause a sinus issue or infection, it is probable that ill-fitting glasses, or those that are too heavy, can exacerbate the symptoms of sinusitis, cause a headache, and be generally uncomfortable.
If you’re having an issue with your sinuses, it’s vital to consult a healthcare professional. Sinus infections, if left untreated, may spread and cause serious problems. As well as seeing a doctor, it’s also important to check the fit of your glasses, too, and your ophthalmologist will be able to help with this. Other solutions, such as the weighted socks mentioned above, may also be of assistance.
