Continuous sinus headache: what to know

Chronic Sinusitis or Allergic Rhinitis can cause pressure around the cheeks, forehead, or eyes with blocked or runny nose and reduced smell. A Common Cold or COVID-19 may cause head discomfort alongside infection symptoms. Dehydration and Heat Exhaustion can produce headache, thirst, weakness, or dizziness. Generalised Anxiety Disorder may amplify tension-related head pain. Facial pressure alone does not prove that the sinuses are the cause.

Rest in a cool, quiet place, drink fluids if you can, and avoid smoke or known nasal triggers. Saline nasal care may ease congestion. Keep a record of location, severity, nasal symptoms, fever, vision changes, medicines, and possible heat exposure. Use pain relief only according to the label and your clinician's advice, particularly if you have other conditions or take regular medicines.

Get emergency help for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, confusion, fainting, seizure, vision loss, or trouble speaking. Urgent assessment is also needed for headache with stiff neck and fever, repeated vomiting, swelling around an eye, or severe illness after heat exposure. Arrange a clinical review when pain is continuous, worsening, recurrent, or not behaving like your usual headaches.

Ask whether your symptoms fit sinus inflammation or another headache pattern, whether your medicines may contribute, and whether nasal examination or further tests are needed. Mention fever, discharge, smell changes, dehydration, heat exposure, and any neurological symptoms.