How Does a Sinus Headache Develop?
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Location
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A sinus headache occurs near the sinus that is infected. There are four major sinus cavities: maxillary, frontal, ethmoid and sphenoid. The maxillary sinus tends to cause pain in the cheeks and makes patients think that they may have a toothache. The frontal sinus causes headaches above the eyes. The ethmoid sinus causes headaches in between the eyes. Finally, the sphenoid sinus causes headaches behind the eyes. All of the four sinus cavities can cause pain and tenderness to the face.
Development
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Sinus infections occur as a result of a cold or problems with allergies. The sinus cavities become inflamed and filled with mucus. Since the mucus isn't draining like it was designed to, it causes an infection. This infection is what causes the headaches. Sometimes a sinus sufferer may think they have a headache when in reality they are just feeling a lot of pressure in the area of the sinus that has become infected. These sinus infections can last anywhere from one to three months.
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Treatment
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Most sinus infections do not go away on their own. If you don't get rid of the sinus infection you will not get rid of the headaches. You can take a product like Advil Cold and Sinus, but this will only mask the headache pain for a short time. Your doctor can prescribe you an anti-biotic regiment. If it doesn't work then you will be referred to an ear nose and throat doctor. This doctor will determine whether surgery is needed or not. A CAT scan or MRI will be ordered to help make the decision. Patients can do some therapy at home. Home therapies include using nasal sprays to loosen up the mucus, sitting in a bathroom full of steam, or setting up a humidifier at night.
Susceptible Individuals
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Some individuals are more susceptible to suffering from sinus headaches then others. Anyone with asthma or chronic allergy problems get sinusitis as well as frequent flyers. Individuals with deviated septums get sinus headaches more often because their airways are partially obstructed. Swimmers and divers are also at risk for chronic sinus problems. Susceptible individuals can try to prevent sinus infections by taking vitamin regiments that decrease inflammation.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Ivar van Bussel
