There are subtle differences between a sinus headache and just a regular old headache. Sometimes, the issues are unrelated. A person with sinus pain, as well as a headache, may reach for the sinus medication, but it works to no avail. The medication works to reduce sinus inflammation, and these two unrelated issues need to be handled on their own.
Tension Headaches and Migraines
Headaches are commonly caused by muscle tension. The tightness of the muscles end up causing intense strain, and that resonates as throbbing pain in the head. It could derive from muscles in the neck, in the head, or even the shoulder. But, the pain could still feel as if it is coming directly from the head.
Migraines are essentially the same thing. The difference is basically how extreme the pain is. A continuous throbbing pain is likely to be a migraine. Nausea and vomiting may accompany a migraine. The issue is still muscle tension. The pain from a migraine is also typically more focused in one exact location. Both a migraine and a headache is vastly different from what is deemed a “sinus headache.”
What Causes a Real Sinus Headache?
A legitimate sinus ache is caused by blockage in the sinus cavity. The blockage reduces drainage, and the mucus builds up in the sinuses. That tension is not the cause of the headache. The build-up of mucus is a perfect place for bacteria to take hold. The bacterium does not necessarily have to form into a full-fledged infection to cause major pain and aching in the sinuses. The body is strained by removing these bacteria, and that is the cause of the prolonged aching pain. Symptoms range from the atypical cold issues- sneezing, coughing, running nose, etc. But, the pain is pronounced and distinct in the head. It is the bacteria which is causing the Sinus Headache.
As detailed above, most headaches are caused by tension and muscles. A true sinus ache is very different. Contact for an accurate diagnosis that reflects what is really going on in the head and sinuses. It could make all the difference.
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