Sinus headaches are an unpleasant source of pain for a huge number of Atlanta residents. Sinusitis, caused by swelling of the sinuses, results in as many as 4.1 million annual visits according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to doctors’ offices around the country. A large number of these people will inevitably suffer the side effects of a headache that are both intense and long-lasting. But is it possible to prevent sinus headaches by treating allergies?
Can Allergy Treatment Prevent Sinus Headaches?
Allergies are a persistent cause of headaches. Allergens like pollen, pet dander and dust cause allergic reactions that lead to the release of histamines by the immune system. The resulting excess mucus may then clog the airways and lead to infections. As the sinuses become inflamed, one side effect is pain across the forehead, cheeks and nose.
If your sinusitis keeps on recurring due to allergic reactions, it’s important to treat the root cause of the issue. Reducing the impact of an allergy will stop the symptoms that cause ongoing sinus problems. However, this process can be tricky when you don’t know the exact allergen at fault, and are not sure how to treat the issue. Working with an allergist to find the cause of the sinus headache will ensure you target the precise trigger.
How Can I Stop Sinus Headaches Caused by Allergies?
Treating sinus headaches involves treating both the allergy and the sinusitis. For simple sinus problems, self-care treatments such as rest and hydration should be helpful. Over-the-counter remedies like antihistamines and nasal decongestants can also provide relief.
To treat your allergy, you first need to undergo allergy testing. When you understand the allergen at fault, you can take steps to reduce contact with the substance. For example, for pollen allergies you can check pollen counts and adjust your lifestyle to avoid certain environments.
To resolve sinus headaches, your allergist may first recommend over-the-counter or prescription medication that treats the underlying cause. Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants and corticosteroid nasal sprays are often effective in relieving allergy-related sinus headaches by reducing inflammation and congestion. If symptoms persist after these treatments, your doctor may recommend immunotherapy as a long-term option to reduce your sensitivity to allergens.
How Immunotherapy Can Help Reduce Sinus Headaches Long-Term
Immunotherapy can be a dependable treatment option for patients with chronic sinusitis and sinus headaches. This treatment gradually helps the immune system build tolerance to the specific allergen triggering inflammation in the sinuses. By reducing the immune response, patients are less likely to experience this persistent sinus swelling that leads to pressure headaches. In many cases, immunotherapy can also reduce the need for medication and allow patients to experience improved comfort and quality of life.
Do You Have a Sinus Headache or Migraine?
It is quite common to confuse a sinus headache with a migraine. But while both problems can be caused by allergies, the way they are treated may differ. Sinusitis treatment can reduce the pain of a sinus headache, while painkillers are often an immediate response to a migraine. However, when the root cause is an allergy, long-term treatments like immunotherapy, antihistamines and decongestants are the key to a life free from painful headaches.
Treat Your Allergies and Prevent Sinus Headaches
Allergies can lead to sinusitis and a range of other aggravating conditions. Start treating your allergies with the help of Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center. Make an appointment at one of our allergy treatment center locations. Call (678) 668-4688 or contact us online.
