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 Diseases and Conditions
Sinus headaches
From MayoClinic.com
Special to CNN.com Introduction You're congested. You feel pressure around your eyes, cheeks and forehead. And your head is throbbing. It feels like a sinus headache — but don't jump to conclusions. Headaches can accompany sinusitis, a condition in which the membranes lining the sinuses become swollen and inflamed. But many people who assume they have sinus headaches actually have migraines or tension headaches. When sinus headaches caused by sinusitis do occur, proper diagnosis and treatment are the keys to relief. Signs and symptoms Headaches caused by sinusitis often appear as soon as you get up in the morning. You may feel pain, pressure, and fullness in your cheeks, brow or forehead. The pain may get worse when you bend forward or lie down. If sinusitis becomes chronic, the headaches may become a constant dull ache. Other signs and symptoms of sinusitis may include:
So what's the confusion with migraines? The signs and symptoms of the two types of headaches often overlap. Migraine pain often gets worse when you bend forward, and migraines can be accompanied by various nasal signs and symptoms — including congestion, facial pressure and watery nasal discharge. A migraine headache, however, is more likely to be pounding or throbbing, aggravated by noise or bright light, and be accompanied by nausea. Causes Sinusitis can be caused by colds, allergies, bacterial or fungal infections, problems with the immune system, or structural problems in the nasal cavity. The resulting pressure changes in the sinuses can trigger headaches. Risk factors Sinusitis can affect anyone. You may be more likely to develop chronic sinusitis if you have:
When to seek medical advice Consult your doctor if your headaches are severe or if they're accompanied by:
Screening and diagnosis Headaches can be difficult to diagnose. The doctor will ask questions about your headaches and do a physical exam. Be sure to mention if you've had a recent cold, if you have allergies and if you smoke. These factors may precipitate or contribute to acute sinusitis. Tender sinuses may be one sign of sinusitis. The doctor may use a thin tube with a light (endoscope) to examine your nasal passages. He or she may also test mucus samples from inside your nose for evidence of a bacterial or fungal infection. Sometimes imaging studies such as computerized tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are recommended as well. Computerized tomography uses a computer to create cross-sectional images (like slices) of your brain and head by combining images from an X-ray unit that rotates around your body. With magnetic resonance imaging, a magnetic field and radio waves are used to create cross-sectional images of the structures within your brain. Treatment If you're diagnosed with sinusitis, your doctor may recommend antibiotics. Be sure to finish the entire course of medication — even if your signs and symptoms disappear before all the pills or capsules are gone. This is the only way to eradicate the bacteria causing the infection. If the sinusitis is related to inflammation or allergies, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid nasal sprays or pills. As the sinus infection clears up, the sinus headaches should disappear. In the meantime, over-the-counter pain relievers, decongestants and saline nasal spray might help you feel better. Use these products only as directed. It may help to drink plenty of fluids as well. If a structural problem in your nasal cavity is contributing to sinusitis or sinus headaches, surgical correction may be recommended. If you continue to experience headaches, your doctor may look for other possible causes. Prevention To reduce the risk of sinusitis, keep your sinuses healthy.
If you develop a cold or other upper respiratory infection, take good care of yourself. Drink plenty of fluids. Keep your nasal passages clear by gently blowing your nose, one nostril at a time. February 22, 2006 |
