Sinuses are air-filled cavities (spaces) located in your forehead, cheekbones, and behind the bridge of your nose. The sinuses drain through channels in the nose. When a sinus becomes inflamed, usually as the result of an allergic
reaction, a tumor, or an infection, the
inflammation causes swelling and increased mucus production and the channels can become blocked. The increased pressure in the sinuses
causes a pain similar to that of a headache .
Sinus Headaches Symptoms
Sinus headaches are associated with a deep and constant pain in the cheekbones, forehead, or bridge of the nose. The pain usually intensifies
with sudden head movement or straining. The pain is usually accompanied by other sinus
symptoms, such as nasal discharge, feeling of fullness in the ears, fever, and facial swelling. Although many chronic headaches are labeled sinus headaches , most of these chronic headaches are in fact migraine or tension headaches. The treatment varies depending on the type of headache. That is why it is important for your doctor to determine whether
your headache symptoms are actually caused by your sinuses. If your headache is truly caused by a sinus blockage, such as an infection, you will
likely have a fever. Usually the history and physical exam are sufficient to determine if there is a blockage in your sinuses, but in some instances, CT and MRI scans will be needed.
Sinus Headache Treatment
Treatment of sinus headaches is usually directed toward symptom relief and treating the infection. Treatment might include antibiotics for the infection, as well as a short period of
antihistamines (such as Benadryl ) or
decongestants (such as Sudafed) to treat the symptoms. Inhaled nasal decongestants (such as Afrin) can also be used, but only for up to three days. Longer use causes a rebound effect
and can make your symptoms worse.
Other drugs to treat sinus infections include pain relievers, or if they don't provide relief, corticosteroids may be prescribed to further decrease the inflammation. When an allergen is
causing the sinus flare-ups, preventive allergy therapy is often needed.
Simple measures such as drinking more fluids and using a humidifier or salt water nasal spray can be helpful in treating sinus headaches.
