Imagine dealing with a sinus headache every single day—something those who’ve only experienced occasional ones can’t fathom. The relentless pain and the relentless pressure in your eyes and face are truly unbearable. Could it be chronic sinusitis, or is there another culprit at play?
What are the signs of sinus headaches?
When you have a sinus headache, the symptoms can feel like the following:
- Pressure and fullness in the cheeks, forehead, and eyebrows
- Pain in the cheeks, forehead, behind the eyes, and the bridge of your nose
- Bending over causes increased pain
- Stuffy nose
- Fever
- Ache in your your upper teeth
- Swollen or puffy face
What causes sinus headaches?
The causes of a true sinus headache is an infection in the sinuses, known as a sinus infection or sinusitis.
Sinusitis commonly follows a respiratory viral infection or cold, often accompanied by thick, discolored mucus, a diminished sense of smell, and an all-encompassing facial ache associated with a sinus headache.
Potential causes of a sinus headache include:
- the common cold
- a deviated septum that hinders sufficient mucus drainage from the sinuses due to insufficient airflow
- seasonal allergies leading to congestion and increased mucus production
- nasal polyps that impact proper mucus drainage
Migraine vs. sinus headache
Frequently, distinguishing between a sinus headache and a migraine can be challenging due to the overlap of symptoms. Both may present with facial pain, nasal congestion, and a runny nose.
However, a clear distinction lies in the nature of nasal discharge: in migraines, it is clear, while in sinus headaches, there is a presence of thick and discolored discharge, accompanied by fever.
Allergies vs. sinus headache
Distinguishing between a sinus headache and allergies can be tricky. Adding to the confusion, while allergies themselves don’t directly cause headaches, they can induce congestion, resulting in sinus pressure and potential infection.
Interestingly, individuals with seasonal allergies are 10 times more prone to experiencing migraines, further complicating the connection between sinus-related symptoms and other conditions.
How to find sinus headache relief
Consider implementing the following home remedies to alleviate symptoms:
- Reduce consumption of dairy products, as they can contribute to thickened mucus.
- Increase water intake to help thin out mucus.
- Incorporate herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, or blackberry to alleviate sinus pressure.
- Utilize a Neti Pot to flush out nasal passages.
- Apply a warm compress to areas of the face experiencing pain.
- Consider using a decongestant to relieve congestion.
When to see an ENT for sinus headaches
Avoid self-diagnosis! Only an ENT specialist can accurately identify the underlying cause of your sinus headache symptoms.
If your issue persists, the ENT may advise undergoing imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or a nasal endoscopy to assess the situation. With a precise diagnosis, a tailored treatment plan can begin.
Find an ENT specialist near you if you are experiencing frequent sinus headaches for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.