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Sinuses are air-filled cavities located in your forehead, cheekbones, and behind the bridge of your nose. When your sinuses become swollen or inflamed due to a cold, infection, tumor or other structural problems in the nasal cavity, the resulting pressure changes in the sinuses (also known as Sinusitis) can trigger a headache. Sinus headache or migraine? Sometimes, it can be difficult for a doctor to diagnose your headache as either a sinus headache or a migraine headache, because the signs and symptoms of both overlap. Studies have shown that 90 percent of those with "sinus headaches" actually have migraines. The main variation between a sinus headache and a migraine is that sinus headaches aren’t typically associated with nausea or vomiting, or aggravated by noise or bright light — all common features of migraines. Sinus Headaches Symptoms If your headache is caused by a sinus blockage, such as an infection, you will likely have a fever. When it comes to sinus headaches and sinusitis, CT scan, MRI and physical exams are the best ways to determine if there is a blockage happening in your sinuses. Sinus headache signs and symptoms may include: • Pain, pressure and fullness in your cheeks, brow or forehead • Nasal discharge • Ear pain • Pain may worsen when bending forward or lying down • Yellow-green or blood-tinged nasal discharge • Sore throat • Fever • Cough • Fatigue • Achy feeling in your upper teeth Is Sinusitis Causing My Headache? Sinusitis can affect anyone. You may be more likely to develop chronic sinusitis if you have: • Asthma • Nasal growths (polyps) • Allergies to dust, mold or pollen • A weak immune system • A condition that affects the way mucus moves within your respiratory system, such as cystic fibrosis • Exposure to first- or secondhand cigarette smoke Treating Sinus Headaches The treatment of sinus headaches begins with symptom relief. Treatment might include antibiotics, antihistamines, pain relievers, corticosteroids or decongestants. However, if you take decongestants, but do not have a true sinus headache, the medication could make your headache worse. When an allergen is causing the sinus flare-ups, preventive allergy therapy is often needed. Allergies and Sinus Headaches Allergies themselves don’t cause sinus headaches. They are responsible for sinus congestion, which can lead to headache pain. Ironically, if you have allergies, the treatment for your allergies won’t necessarily relieve your headache pain. An allergist will be the best resource for helping you find relief from both the allergy and headache symptoms. When to see a doctor Consult your doctor if: • Your symptoms last longer than 10 days • You have a severe headache, and over-the-counter pain medicine doesn't help • You have a fever greater than 100.5 F (38 C) If you suffer from sinus headaches and are having a hard time finding relief, please visit the website of I Hate Headaches today to learn more about what may be causing your headache and how it may be treated.
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