The most common symptoms of a sinus headache include throbbing pain in front the face and head, pressure behind the eyes and above the cheekbones, and pain in the back of the head when leaning over. In addition, symptoms of a sinus headache can include facial tenderness and increased pain when moving suddenly. Typically, a sinus infection causes symptoms of a sinus headache, but allergies can cause sinus headache. Sinus headache is generally caused by inflammation of the sinus cavities that surround the nose, cheeks, and eyes.
Frequently, experiencing drastic temperature changes, such as entering into a heated room from the cold outdoors, can cause symptoms of a sinus headache to worsen. Also, the pain of a sinus headache is typically worse upon awakening in the morning. This is because thick mucus accumulates in the sinuses and drains overnight, contributing to pain and pressure. Occasionally, the pain is so severe, that people complain of knife-like pain in the head. Sinus congestion can be stubborn and challenging to resolve and sometimes it takes multiple treatment options to get relief.
Symptoms of a sinus headache are frequently accompanied by post nasal drip, nasal congestion, malaise, and green or yellow nasal discharge. Patients also often complain of fever, fatigue, and sore throat. A sore throat typically occurs because mucus is constantly dripping down the back of the throat, which can cause irritation and redness of throat tissues. Certain risk factors can worsen symptoms of a sinus headache, including flying in an airplane, having allergies, and swimming.
Treatment options for symptoms of a sinus headache include using a vaporizer or humidifier, taking antihistamines or decongestants, and using corticosteroid nasal sprays. When sinus congestion and headaches are caused by infections, the health care provider might prescribe antibiotics if the infection is bacterial in nature. Antibiotics will have no effect a sinus infection that is caused by a virus, however. Generally, after antibiotic treatment has been completed, the sinus infection and subsequent headache will usually resolve.
Certain people are unable to tolerate the side effects caused by decongestants, which can include a fast heartbeat, anxiety, and insomnia. In these cases, individuals can opt for over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Although these medications do not relieve pressure or congestion, they are usually effective in relieving sinus headache pain. When ineffective, however, the physician can recommend prescription medication that can relieve severe sinus headache pain.
