How Pain Relievers Help Reduce Inflammation in the Body

One of the biggest causes of pain in the body is inflammation, which is why it’s so important for pain relief medications to address that symptom. Inflammation can happen in various parts of the body, but many people don’t realize that it is a common cause of sinus pain and pressure. Pain relief medications come in varying levels of strength and are available over-the-counter, by prescription from a doctor, and through natural means. Here is some information about what causes inflamed sinuses, as well as how pain relievers help reduce inflammation and body aches from fever. With a better understanding of how and why to reduce inflammation, sinus pain sufferers can find relief and get back to their daily lives.

What Causes Inflammation of the Sinuses?

Sinuses can become inflamed as a symptom of chronic sinusitis. Causes of this condition include nasal polyps, a respiratory tract infection due to a common cold, a deviated nasal septum, or allergies. People who have asthma, immune system disorders, or are regularly exposed to pollutants like cigarette smoke are more prone to develop inflamed sinuses. Oftentimes, this condition is caused by an invading virus or bacteria that causes the sinuses to swell, the nasal passages to become runny or stuffy, and facial pain. But if the symptoms are prolonged, severe, or worsening, it may be time to see a doctor.^2,4

Benefits of Reducing Inflammation in the Nasal Passages

Inflammation isn’t inherently harmful, as it is actually a natural bodily response to protect itself against bacteria, viruses, and toxins. But when the nasal passages become inflamed, pain, pressure, and headaches are likely to follow. Therefore, the most significant benefit of reducing inflammation in this region is to relieve a sinus infection or sinus head pain.^2,4 By reducing this inflammation, individuals have a better chance of getting a restful night’s sleep and waking up refreshed for the day ahead. To diagnose swollen nasal passages, a physician may use imaging studies, a nasal endoscopy, sinus and nasal cultures, or allergy tests.² Anti-inflammatory foods may also help aid the reduction of swelling in this region. Foods that are known for their anti-inflammatory properties include cold-water fish, spinach, olive oil, turmeric, berries, and garlic.³

Body Aches and Fever

Not only does infection cause inflamed nasal passes, but also body aches and fever. In a similar way, pain relievers can help reduce bodily inflammation that makes the body ache all over. Fevers can actually be beneficial to the body because they are its natural way of defending itself against pathogens and healing itself back to health. But when the symptoms of fever and body aches become unmanageable, medication may help an individual feel better. This occurs because some medications have the ability to lower fever.¹ But that reduced temperature and comfort may come at the expense of making the actual virus worse and prolonging the presence of a virus in the body. This is one reason why it’s so important to talk to a trusted medical professional about potential treatment plans before self-diagnosing and treating oneself for body pain and fever.

References for How Pain Relievers Help Reduce Inflammation in the Body