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Sinus Headaches

A sinus headache is also one type of headache which occurs when the sinuses become congested. The sinuses are the air filled cavities or bones in the head that are connected to the nose through the small openings. These openings get blocked by excess mucous and become infected due to an allergic reaction such as cold or allergy attack, the inflammation or a tumor. Sinuses are located in the cheek bone on each side, behind the bridge of the nose and the forehead bone.

Causes of Sinus Headache

A sinus headache is mainly caused by cold, allergies, problems with the immune system, bacterial or fungal infections and structural problems in the nasal cavity. Due to these causes the sinuses become congested and infected and results into a sinus headache.

Signs and Symptoms of Sinus Headache

The person feels pain, pressure and fullness in the forehead, brow or cheeks. If the sinus becomes chronic, then the headache results into a constant dull ache. There are various symptoms of sinus headache and they are:-

Fever
Fatigue
Sore throat
Cough
Yellow-green nasal discharge

Risk Factors of Sinus Headache

Sinus headache can affect any person and there are more chances of developing chronic sinus headache in case of:-

Allergies to dust, pollen or mold
Asthma
A weak immune system
Nasal growth
A condition that affects the mucus such as cystic fibrosis

When to seek medical advice

The person should consult the doctor immediately if they experience severe headache that is followed by:-

Confusion
Fever higher than 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit
Stiff neck
Pain, redness or swelling on the face or around the eyes

Screening and diagnosis of Sinus Headache

Some headaches are difficult to diagnose. While diagnosing a sinus headache, the doctor checks the complete medical history and performs the thorough physical examination. The doctor can take various tests like an X-ray, MRI or a CT scan of the brain and head to confirm that whether there is any fluid or swelling in the sinus tissue or not. Sometimes, the doctor uses an endoscope to examine the nasal passages.

Treatments of Sinus Headache

There are various treatments which the doctor can recommend to the patient. The patient can take ibuprofen or acetaminophen and aspirin which can reduce the pain temporarily. If the sinus is blocked, then the patient can take a decongestant to get rid of headache. The doctor can also prescribe an antibiotic to the patient. If the sinus is due to the allergy or inflammation then the patient can take corticosteroid nasal pills or sprays. In case, if the patient is suffering from continuous sinus headache then the doctor can recommend surgery for them.

Preventions of Sinus Headache

Hands should be washed properly with soap and water.
Humidifier should be used.
Irritants such as cigar, cigarette and pipe smoke should be avoided.

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