How common is headache in chronic sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis involves ongoing inflammation in the lining of the sinuses. Swelling and mucus can interfere with drainage and create pressure around the forehead, cheeks, nose, or eyes. That pressure may be felt as a dull, heavy, or persistent headache. Nasal congestion, reduced sense of smell, thick nasal discharge, cough, or tenderness in the face can occur alongside it.

A headache by itself does not identify its cause. Migraine, tension headache, eye strain, viral illness, and other problems can feel similar. The pattern, accompanying symptoms, examination, and how long the symptoms have lasted help a clinician assess whether chronic sinusitis is involved.

Keep track of when the headache appears, where it is located, and whether it changes with congestion, bending forward, sleep, or exposure to irritants. Drink fluids according to your usual needs, avoid cigarette smoke and other known triggers, and use medicines only as directed on their label or by a clinician. If symptoms continue or interfere with sleep, work, or daily activities, arrange an assessment so the underlying nasal and sinus symptoms can be reviewed.

Seek urgent medical help for a sudden, severe headache, new weakness or numbness, confusion, fainting, vision loss, a stiff neck with fever, or repeated vomiting. Arrange prompt care if swelling develops around an eye, vision changes occur, or facial pain and fever are worsening. Persistent headaches with ongoing nasal symptoms also deserve a routine clinical review.

Ask whether your headache pattern fits sinus inflammation or another type of headache, which nasal treatments are suitable for you, and what symptoms should prompt earlier review. You can also ask whether allergies, medication overuse, or another condition may be maintaining your symptoms.