What Is Causing My Sinus Headache?

Causes of sinus headaches for Atlanta patients.
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Anyone who suffers from sinus headaches will recognize the constant excruciating pain they can bring. The acute pain across the nose, cheeks and forehead will leave you desperate for an effective sinus headache treatment. But before you can begin treating the issue properly, you need to discover the root cause. Our Atlanta-area patients will usually find their headaches are triggered by one of a few common causes.

What Are the Main Causes of a Sinus Headache?

Sinus headaches are caused by sinus infections. But infections have various causes that lead to congestion and inflammation of the nasal cavities. A further complication is a similarity with migraines and tension headaches. Consequently, a consultation with your ENT doctor will shed light on the precise cause of the headaches. The following causes will often play a major role.

The Common Cold

Colds are a common illness and they usually clear up within a week or two. Unfortunately, a cold can lead to swelling in the sinuses, and that can prevent mucus from draining properly. The subsequent congestion is the perfect place for bacteria to grow. The sinuses then become blocked with thick mucus, leading to headaches and pain across the face.

Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps are soft growths of tissue found in the nose and sinuses brought on by chronic inflammation. These growths can block the nasal passages, making it hard for mucus to drain. The result is nasal and sinus inflammation that may lead to infection. An ENT doctor will check your sinuses and nose for polyps, and usually prescribe drugs to shrink the growth. In the most severe cases, surgery may be required to remove large nasal polyps.

Allergies

Allergies are a persistent problem for many Atlanta adults and children. Allergens like pollen, dust, mold and pet dander lead to swelling of the sinuses, and infection may follow. Sinus congestion is not a certainty for allergy sufferers, but it is a common side effect of the inflammation caused by allergies. And with allergies being an ongoing issue for many people, effective treatment is required to prevent sinus headaches from persisting.

What Are the Treatment Options for Sinus Headaches?

After diagnosis, an allergy doctor and/or ENT doctor can provide a sinus infection treatment that reduces inflammation and swelling in the sinuses and nasal cavities. The treatment may involve a decongestant or saline nasal spray to clear the sinuses and reduce the chance of headaches. Medication may also be required for nasal polyps or a bacterial infection. If the problem is caused by allergies, solutions include allergen avoidance, antihistamines – and oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT).

Get Help Treating the Causes of Sinus Headaches

If you don’t treat sinus headaches, the problem may become an ongoing concern. Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Centers work with patients in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek to diagnose their sinus issues and offer effective solutions. Call 678-668-4688 or request an appointment online.

Find Allergy & Sinus Relief

Chacko Allergy, Asthma & Sinus center has been treating Atlanta-area patients for more than 20 years. Our commitment to patient well-being is second to none.






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