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\nThe sinuses are air-filled pockets over your forehead, below your cheekbones, between the bridge of your nose and behind your eyes. When you are suffering from a cold, allergies or infection, the sinus lining can swell, produce excess mucus and become plugged. This interferes with normal mucus drainage, leading to breathing difficulties, pain and pressure.<\/p>\n\n
Headache is a common symptom for a variety of conditions. You will know if you are suffering from a sinus headache if you are experiencing a variety of cold-like symptoms such as nasal congestion and discharge, postnasal drip, sore throat, facial pressure and swelling, loss of smell and taste, fever, fatigue and\/or bad breath.<\/p>\n
Your physician can likely diagnose a sinus headache based on your symptoms and a physical exam, but sometimes a CT or MRI scan may be ordered.<\/p>\n
Treatment is based upon how severe your symptoms are. Nasal decongestants such as Afrin nasal spray or Sudafed, may provide immediate relief, but they are a short-term solution and shouldn\u2019t be used for more than a few days. If they are, symptoms can actually worsen.<\/p>\n
Other temporary treatment options designed to provide instant relief include applying a warm, moist washcloth to your face periodically through the day, drinking lots of fluids, flushing the sinuses with a Neti pot or similar device and using a humidifier.<\/p>\n
Chronic sinusitis requires a solution geared toward long-term effectiveness. Nasal steroid sprays, antihistamines, and saline washes\/sprays can all be used for extended periods without harm.<\/p>\n
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. Immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be administered when allergies are the cause. Surgery may be performed to enlarge the sinus openings or repair a deviated septum.<\/p>\n