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.
Medications such as antihistamines are frequently successful at preventing sinusitis. However, if the issue keeps on recurring, then immunotherapy (or allergy shots) desensitizes the immune system to the allergen and offers long-term comfort. This treatment reduces the chance of an allergic reaction by stopping the inflammation that causes sinus headaches.
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 in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or contact us online.
