Understanding Sinus Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief

Maggie Ju
May 1
2 min read

Sinus headaches are a common complaint among people suffering from sinusitis or other nasal issues. Characterized by pain and pressure in the face, particularly around the forehead, eyes, and cheeks, sinus headaches can significantly impact daily life. But what exactly causes them, and how can they be treated?

What Is a Sinus Headache?

A sinus headache occurs when the sinus cavities in the face become inflamed or congested, typically due to infection (sinusitis), allergies, or irritants like smoke and pollution. The sinuses are air-filled spaces located behind the forehead, cheeks, and eyes. When these areas are swollen or blocked, they can’t drain properly, causing pressure to build up—leading to a headache.

Symptoms of a Sinus Headache

The symptoms of a sinus headache often overlap with other types of headaches, which can make them hard to diagnose without a medical evaluation. Common signs include:

A deep, constant pain in the forehead, bridge of the nose, or cheekbones

Increased pain when bending over or lying down

Facial tenderness or swelling

Nasal congestion or discharge

A feeling of fullness in the ears

Fatigue

Fever (in cases of sinus infection)

Sinus Headache vs. Migraine

It’s important to differentiate between sinus headaches and migraines, as they’re often confused. Migraines can also cause facial pain, nasal congestion, and watery eyes, leading many people to assume they have a sinus issue. However, migraines are neurological and may be accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances—symptoms not typically seen with sinus headaches.

A true sinus headache almost always accompanies a sinus infection, which includes thick nasal discharge and fever. If these are not present, another type of headache may be the real cause.

Causes of Sinus Headaches

The most common causes include:

Acute or chronic sinusitis: Bacterial or viral infections of the sinuses

Seasonal allergies: Hay fever and pollen can inflame nasal passages

Nasal polyps or deviated septum: Structural issues that block sinus drainage

Environmental irritants: Smoke, pollution, or strong odors

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the sinus congestion. Acupuncture can help to reduce inflammation and release sinus headache and its accompanied symptoms. Some other approaches include:

1. Medications

Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine): Reduce sinus swelling

Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone): Treat inflammation

Antibiotics: Only when a bacterial infection is diagnosed

Antihistamines: Helpful if allergies are the trigger

2. Home Remedies

Saline nasal irrigation: Rinses the nasal passages and promotes drainage

Warm compresses: Relieve facial pressure

Steam inhalation: Loosens mucus and soothes inflamed sinuses

Hydration: Keeps mucus thin and helps drainage

3. Prevention

Manage allergies effectively