When a person’s sinuses become clogged, they can experience a sharp pain and pressure over their nose and between their eyes. This pain is called a “sinus headache”. The severity of a sinus headache can range from irritating to severe. Either way, it’s important to seek medical help as soon as possible.
Sinus Headache Prevention: How to Get the Right Diagnosis
A study found that 90% of people who thought they had sinus headaches actually suffered from migraines. The reason behind this is that different headache types have similar symptoms. Due to the confusion, getting the right diagnosis is crucial.
Symptoms of a Sinus Headache
Listed below are some of the most common symptoms of sinus headaches. Anyone who is experiencing these should see a doctor.
- Pain and pressure in the forehead, behind and between the eyes and above the nose.
- Pain which worsens with movement.
- Nasal stuffiness and discharge.
- Sore throat.
- Fatigue.
How to Treat Sinus Headaches
Treating a sinus headache is usually two-pronged. Sufferers will need to treat both the underlying cause and the pain. Suffers can use the following measures to relieve sinus pain.
- Use an over-the-counter painkiller. This can relieve pain within half an hour.
- Try a decongestant. This will reduce the amount of mucus in the system thus reducing the swelling in the nasal passage. If the sufferer is taking a painkiller with ibuprofen in it, they should make sure that the decongestant does not contain this ingredient.
- Irrigate the nasal passages with salt water. This moistens and clears nasal passages.
- Avoid irritants such as perfume, cigarette smoke and certain chemicals.
Seeking Medical Help for Sinus Problems
There are two instances where a sinus sufferer needs to see a sinus doctor immediately. The first is if the above treatments do not work. Sufferers that experience fever, pain, swelling, skin redness, a stiff neck, severe headaches and confusion also need immediate medical care. During the appointment, the doctor will first check if the patient really has a sinus problem or if they have been misdiagnosed. The doctor can also advise you on what to do to prevent the reoccurrence of a sinus headache.