Sinus headache: what should you know?

A sinus headache usually refers to head or facial pressure occurring with nasal congestion, drainage, or sinus inflammation. Pressure may be felt around the cheeks, forehead, eyes, or nose and can increase when bending forward. Migraine can also cause facial pressure and nasal symptoms, so location alone cannot establish the cause.

A common cold or allergic rhinitis may swell the nasal lining and narrow drainage passages. Chronic sinusitis is considered when nasal symptoms and facial pressure continue or recur over a long period. Migraine is more likely to bring throbbing pain, nausea, or sensitivity to light or sound, although symptoms vary. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, anxiety, and some infections can also produce headache.

Tell a clinician when the pain began, where it is located, whether it is one-sided, and whether movement, light, fever, or nasal symptoms change it. These details are more useful than the label sinus headache.

Rest in a cool, quiet place, drink fluids, and use a saline nasal spray or rinse if congestion is present. Avoid smoke and strong scents. Follow label directions for any pain medicine and avoid taking products more often than advised, since frequent use can perpetuate headaches. A pharmacist can check for interactions and suggest options suited to your health conditions.

Seek emergency help for a sudden severe headache, new weakness, trouble speaking, fainting, confusion, a stiff neck, or a severe headache after a head injury. Get prompt medical advice for headache with high fever, repeated vomiting, eye swelling or vision change, or signs of dehydration or heat illness. Arrange review for a new, persistent, or recurrent pattern.

Could this be migraine rather than sinus inflammation? Do I need an examination of my nose, eyes, or nerves? Which pain relief is suitable for me, and how often can I use it?