Is It A Sinus Headache
Allergies can trigger a migraine, and that is often confused with a sinus headache. Allergies can also trigger a regular headache. So, how do you know which one you have? Let’s look at the differences.
A sinus headache is caused by sinusitis, an infection or virus in your sinuses, usually caused by you guessed it seasonal allergies. It can also be caused by a cold. Symptoms of a sinus infection are postnasal drip, fever, fatigue, bad breath, coughing, congestion, pressure in the eyes, teeth pain, ear pain, pressure and pain in the nose, eyes, and forehead, and a sinus headache.
The sinus headache will cause pain behind your eyes, nose, cheekbones, and forehead. You might feel it in your ears and teeth as well, and the pain will often worsen when you bend forward or lie down.
Sinusitis is treated with decongestants, antihistamine, and a saline solution for nasal irrigation. You’ll need to see your healthcare professional, who will determine if you need antibiotics or not. A sinus infection can go away on its own after about a week but may need antibiotics, especially if it’s a bacterial infection .
Complications Of Chronic Sinusitis
Some people are troubled by frequent sinus infections, or continuous infection. Chronic sinusitis can linger for weeks or even months at a time. This can sometimes lead to serious complications, including infections in the bones and tissue near to the sinuses. Very rarely this infection can spread to the brain and the fluid around the brain. The person will be very ill and have swelling around the eyes.People with chronic sinusitis may have other problems which affect the nose, throat and ears at the same time, including:
- Middle ear infection and temporary deafness
- Post-nasal drip , which can lead to constant coughing, a sore throat and bad breath.
Can Allergies Cause Sinus Pressure
High pollen counts, dust mites and even your neighbors cat can flare up your allergies and have you begging for allergy relief. But as time passes, you might notice those allergy symptoms becoming more severe. Learn how your allergies can cause sinus pain and congestion, and what steps you can take to relieve sinus and allergy symptoms.
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The Difference Between Rhinitis And Sinusitis
Though a stuffy nose seems like a minor complaint, it can be a warning sign of several conditions. Two common culprits associated with nasal congestion are allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. Both conditions have symptoms that are similar in the early stages, and medical professionals occasionally struggle to make a proper diagnosis. Over time, differences between the two usually emerge.
Can Allergy Pills Help Treat Sinus Congestion
In addition to OTC options, antihistamine medications such as Sudafed, Claritin, Zyrtec, and Benadryl can also relieve symptoms of sinus infections. antihistamines are specifically designed to treat allergy symptoms, they can also be used to treat sinus infections, making them worthwhile.
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Where Are Your Sinusesand What Is Sinus Pressure
When it comes to sinus pressure, it’s essentially swelling in your sinuses in response to three different scenarios: a pressure change between the air inside your sinuses and the air outside your sinuses , when irritants invade your sinuses , or when you have an anatomical issue .
Unfortunately, you can’t cater your sinus pain treatments to what’s causing itbut the good news is that most available remedies can work to reduce inflammation and swelling in your sinuses regardless of what’s causing it. Here’s a guide, according to doctors, on the best ways to treat sinus pain so you can start feeling better ASAP.
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How To Tell If You Have An Actual Sinus Infection
Even though we often say we have a sinus infection even if its just inflammation or an allergic response, there are symptoms of an actual infection that may be treatable with antibiotics. Nasal congestion and pain under the eyes or around the temples are, of course, main symptoms, but others include the loss of the sense of smell, green nasal discharge, mucus dripping down your throat, cough, fever, fatigue, sore throat, and even bad breath.
Sometimes, a sinus infection will clear up without intervention, but if you develop a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher, have your symptoms for 10 or more days, notice that your symptoms are getting worse and are not improved by OTC medications, or you have multiple infections in a years time, you should seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
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Why Are Sinus Headaches And Migraines Confused For One Another
So, the answer to the question, Can you have sinus pressure but now congestion? is: not likely. But you can have a migraine whether youre congested or not, and this is where the main point of confusion arises.The root cause behind migraines is still up for debate. However the prevailing theory is that migraines are caused by neurological issues in the brain. Even so, the symptoms of sinus pressure can overlap with symptoms of a migraine. For example, patients suffering from either sinus pressure or migraines can experience drainage, watery eyes, and of course, facial pain.
It is a commonly held belief that people who experience migraines have pain on the one side or the otherof their head. While this idea is true for many individuals, many others experience pain in their cheeks and forehead ie, in the exact same place where you would experience sinus pressure. And some people experience sinus pressure on one side of their head.People who experience migraines also frequently claim that factors such as weather changes, allergies, and congestion can act as triggers for their headaches contributing factors also shared with sinus headaches.
Nasal Allergy Symptom : Sinus Pressure
Your sinuses are small cavities behind your forehead, cheeks, and eyes. If mucus builds up in these areas because of allergies, you may feel pressure or pain.
You can help reduce sinus congestion by applying a moist, warm cloth to your face or inhaling steam a few times each day. You can also try using a saline nasal spray. If you feel sinus pain and pressure for more than a week, call your doctor.
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What Causes Sinus Pressure
Sinus pressure and pain have a variety of causes, but the most frequent causes are known together as sinusitis. This is an inflammation of the nasal passages as a result of a fungal, viral, or bacterial infection. Pressure is one of the more noticeable symptoms of sinusitis, along with headache and excess mucus. It can feel like a pain behind the eyes or a tight sensation in the face and ears. Rarely, it can also take the form of jaw pain. Although the pressure can be painful, it is usually easy to find relief.
Apart from sinusitis, allergic reactions can also cause irritation in the sinuses, leading to swelling and sinus pressure. Some allergens which cause irritation in the sinuses are pollen, pet dander, and dust mites, among others. Irritation often leads to swelling, and when swelling occurs, the narrow passages that normally allow air and mucus to travel between the sinuses become blocked. These conditions, if not caused directly by infection, can lead to it, further worsening the condition.
When Should I Call The Doctor
- a cold that lasts for more than 710 days without improvement
- a cold that seems to be getting worse after 7 days of symptoms
- symptoms of allergies that don’t clear with the usual allergy medicine
Also call if your child shows any other signs of worsening sinusitis, such as:
- pain or pressure in the cheeks or around the eyes
- swelling around the eye
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What Can I Do To Prevent Sinus Infections In My Child Or Myself
To prevent sinus infections, keep your nose clear and regularly wash your hands with soap and warm water. A daily nasal steroid spray or saline lavage can be helpful to control a stuffy nose. If you are dealing with sinus infections, feel free to make an appointment with one of our board-certified allergists near you in Atlanta, Lawrenceville or Conyers by or on our website, www.allergyinatlanta.com
Nasal Allergy Symptom : Itchy Eyes
Itchy or watery eyes are a common allergy symptom. Although they can be annoying, eye symptoms donât usually cause serious eye or vision problems.
Again, avoiding the triggers that cause your allergies is the best way to help prevent itchy eyes. For example, if youâre allergic to pollen, keep the windows shut when youâre inside and wear sunglasses outside to help protect your eyes. Try not to rub your eyes, since this can irritate them, and avoid wearing contact lenses.
To soothe your eyes, try placing a cold washcloth over them or use artificial tears. Over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications or eyedrops that contain an antihistamine can also help relieve symptoms.
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Is It A Migraine
Allergies can also trigger migraines, and how that happens is…complicated. Experts aren’t quite sure why allergies can cause migraines but believe it’s a combination of an overreaction from your nervous system and an immune system response to allergens that cause inflammation in your body.
Symptoms of an allergy-induced migraine are pain in your face, particularly in your cheekbones and forehead, nausea, and a stabbing or throbbing pain that is often on one side of your head. You may experience fewer migraines in the winter when allergens are at their lowest and have them more often in the spring, summer, and fall.
Since your allergies are causing the migraines, helping reduce your allergies can help eliminate some of the migraines you’re having. There are ways you can avoid your allergy triggers and treat your allergies to reduce your migraines caused by allergies .
Sinus Problems Caused By Cat Allergies
By | Submitted On August 10, 2010
Cats are adorable because of their fur and friendliness. However, cats may give you problems especially if you are allergic to them. You might be experiencing cat allergies yet there is no way that you are going to move out your pet from home. This might be a problem but dealing with your cat so that you can prevent allergies that may cause serious problems like sinus problems may be accomplished with a little diligence. If ever you have found out that you are allergic to cats, then you must make a move to prevent serious problems. There are many symptoms accompanied with a cat allergy like itchy water eyes, sneezing, runny nose, headache and sinus problems. Therefore if you are going to keep your cat at home then you are going to need to moderate these symptoms. However, there are instances that may be life threatening and will mean that it is time that you have to find a new home for your cat.
Be aware that sinus problem may bring you life threatening problems, so, if you are thinking about your health but you find it difficult for you to let your cat out of house, then you must follow these tips.
Carl Walters understands the desire to want to be able to live a life free of allergies and not have to fear going outdoors or even going into your home. Learn more about the symptoms of cat allergy and on ways on how to cure your sinus infection .
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What Can I Do About Recurring Sinus Headaches
Many sinus headaches, especially those that recur, are actually migraines. But its smart to see your healthcare provider to figure out the cause of your headaches.
You may find that the best long-term solution is figuring out what triggers your migraine headaches so you can avoid them. Its helpful to keep a headache diary to track potential triggers. Triggers you can control include:
- Alcohol.
- Specific foods, such as chocolate, red wine or strong cheese.
- Lack of sleep.
How To Reduce Your Allergy Symptoms
You can start with over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants to treat the allergy symptoms you’re having now. The next step is getting immunotherapy by making an appointment with an allergist. The doctor will do an allergy test to see what you’re allergic to and create allergy shots to help your immune system. You’ll see a decrease in allergy symptoms, including those painful allergy migraines. Your allergist will give you injections that contain a small amount of your allergens to help your immune system recognize that they are not a threat to your health to build up a tolerance to them instead of overreacting and triggering allergy attacks.
Limit your exposure to your allergens by avoiding going outside on windy days and when the pollen count is high. Use air conditioning with a HEPA filter to keep the air in your home clean and free of allergens. Avoid yard work and hanging clothes outside to dry. Use allergy-friendly covers on your pillows, mattresses, and box springs. Clean with wet mops instead of brooms, and keep pets out of your bedroom. Replace any carpeting with flooring because carpets can keep allergens trapped in them. Use a neti pot daily to clean out your sinuses. You should see a decrease in your allergy symptoms and headaches or migraines after taking these steps .
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What Is The Fastest Way To Get Rid Of Sinusitis
When you have a sinus infection, you often have to go through your day in pain and in a fog. Sinusitis, or infection of the sinuses, is incredibly common, but many people suffer through it rather than get it treated. At Asthma Allergy Centre in Tigard, McMinnville, or Beaver, OR, we use a variety of sinus management treatments to reduce the inflammation and immune response that are likely behind your sinus problems. Check out on how to get rid of sinusitis.
What Is The Long
Sinus infections are primarily caused by allergies. The most common allergens are pollen, dust mites and pet dander. Those with repeated sinus infections may have chronic sinusitis, which means long-term solutions may be a better option.
Immunotherapy can help. These allergy shots enable your body to decrease sensitivity to common allergens. The Raleigh sinus doctors at Raleigh Medical Group specialize in helping patients with chronic allergy and sinus problems. While immunotherapy is effective, the treatment can take as long as one year to achieve noticeable results and maintenance treatment will likely be needed.
To find out if youre a candidate for immunotherapy, schedule an appointment with one of our internal medicine doctors. We welcome the opportunity to serve you.
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Can You Get A Headache From A Sinus Infection
Chronic sinus infections and allergies may cause recurrent headaches. A sinus infection generally caused by bacteria, virus or an abscessed tooth causes inflammation in the sinus cavity, and may cause a headache across the forehead. Seasonal allergies may cause congestion in the sinuses, also causing a headache.
Sinus Surgery And Balloon Sinuplasty
For these reasons, propping up your head while sleeping might not be enough you will likely also need to tackle the sinus infection itself. What is the fastest way to get rid of a sinus infection? Many sinus infections will go away with OTC medication and rest, but chronic sinus infections often demand further treatment.
If you have chronic sinus infections that disturb your sleep, you may need to meet with your doctor to discuss different types of sinus surgery. We especially encourage you to ask your doctor about balloon sinuplasty, a minimally-invasive, in-office procedure that takes less than 20 minutes and provides long-lasting sinus relief.
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On Either Side Of The Nostrils
Use your fingers to apply gentle pressure to both sides of your nostrils. Your fingers should be at right angles to these points. Keep pressing for a minute to allow the sinuses to drain out this can help prevent inflammation and bring some sinus pressure relief. This pressure point is also good for pain behind the cheeks and helps prevent respiratory illnesses.
Nasal Allergy Symptom : Runny Or Stuffy Nose
A runny or stuffy nose is one of the most common symptoms. âThe best way to treat congestion is to treat the allergy thatâs causing it,â says Marshall Plaut, MD, chief of allergic mechanisms at the Asthma, Allergy and Inflammation branch of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases .
Start by trying to avoid your allergy triggers. If you donât already know what your allergy triggers are, an allergist can help you identify them.
Although it can be difficult to completely avoid some triggers, you may be able to reduce your exposure to them. For example, if pollen is a trigger, stay inside when pollen counts are high. If dogs or cats make you sniffle, wash your hands and change your clothes after playing with them.
Some people find that nasal irrigation using a Neti pot or a nasal rinse helps clear congestion. Over-the-counter antihistamines, , and cromolyn sodium nasal sprays can all help control nasal allergy symptoms. Donât use decongestant nasal sprays for more than three days at a time, however. Be sure to read and follow the directions on the label for any over-the-counter medicine.
If these remedies donât offer relief, your doctor may prescribe other treatments.
If your symptoms donât get better within 7 days or get worse after about 5 days, itâs time to see your doctor.
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