When a headache strikes, your first thought might be stress, fatigue or bright lights. But if the pain is centered around your face—especially near your eyes, cheeks or forehead—it might actually be a sinus headache.
What Triggers a Sinus Headache?
Sinus headaches are usually the result of sinus inflammation. When your sinuses become swollen and mucus builds up, pressure can develop in your face, leading to an uncomfortable ache.
The most common causes of sinus inflammation include:
- Viral infections like the common cold
- Seasonal or environmental allergies
- Bacterial infections that follow a cold or flu
Recognizing the Symptoms
Unlike migraines or tension headaches that affect the top or sides of the head, sinus headaches cause a deep, steady pressure in the middle of your face. You might feel it behind your eyes, along your cheekbones, across your forehead or at the bridge of your nose.
These headaches tend to feel like a dull, persistent ache rather than sharp pain. Many people also report facial tenderness, especially when bending forward or touching the affected area.
How Long Do They Last?
The duration depends on the underlying cause. A viral sinus infection might clear up in under 10 days, while a bacterial infection could linger for several weeks without proper treatment. Chronic sinus issues may require ENT intervention to be fully resolved.
At-Home Relief for Sinus Headaches
If you’re battling a sinus headache, there are several ways to ease the discomfort:
- Use a decongestant to help reduce swelling and improve mucus flow
- Breathe in steam from a warm shower or bowl of hot water to loosen congestion
- Place a warm compress on your face to ease sinus pressure
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the ache
When to Seek Professional Care
If sinus headaches keep coming back or don’t improve with home care, it’s time to see a specialist. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment might include:
- Balloon Sinuplasty to gently open blocked sinus passages
- Allergy management with antihistamines
- Steroid medications to reduce swelling
- Surgery, like septoplasty or polypectomy, if structural issues or polyps are contributing
Persistent sinus pain isn’t something you have to live with. Contact Benke Ear Nose & Throat Clinic to schedule an appointment with our ENT team. We’ll get to the root of your sinus trouble and help you get back to enjoying the smells of a warm Cleburne spring more easily.