Sinus headaches can be the source of much pain and discomfort in the forehead, brow and cheek areas. Over-the-counter sinus medications can sometimes provide relief, but persistent sinus headaches are often best treated by a specialist. In Bend, OR sinus headaches can be treated by Dr. Ryan Gallivan at the Northwest Sinus Center.

Symptoms of a Sinus Headache

Any type of headache is uncomfortable. Some are even excruciating. In order to choose the right treatment to alleviate the discomfort, it is important to identify what type of headache you are experiencing. Since sinus headaches can often be extremely uncomfortable, it is sometimes difficult to differentiate between a sinus headache and a migraine or tension headache. Common symptoms of a sinus headache include:

• Congestion or stuffy nose
• Decreased sense of smell
• Pain or pressure in the cheeks and/or forehead
• Increasing pain when lying down or bending forward
• Feeling fatigued
• Achiness in the upper teeth area
• Fever (in the case of sinusitis)

It can be difficult to identify what type of headache you are experiencing. Sinus headaches and migraines do share some common symptoms, such as congestion. However, migraines are also associated with nausea and/or vomiting. Additionally, bright lights and loud noises can further exacerbate a migraine headache. Sinus headaches, on the other hand, are not typically associated with nausea, vomiting or sensitivity to noise and bright light.

If you are still unsure about the type of headache you are experiencing, an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist can assess your symptoms and determine if it is a sinus headache due to sinusitis, otherwise known as a sinus infection. See an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor in Bend for sinus headache diagnosis and treatment if you frequently experience any of the above symptoms, particularly if the headaches are recurring and are interfering with your daily routine.

Treating Sinus Headaches

Sinus headaches can sometimes be treated with over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants and nasal sprays. An antibiotic to treat the sinus infection itself is sometimes necessary to prevent recurring sinus headaches. Alternately, prescription corticosteroids can be used to reduce inflammation in the sinuses and alleviate the headaches. If sinusitis and sinus headaches continue to be persistent problems, surgery might be the best option for long term relief.

You don’t have to suffer from persistent sinus headaches. There are effective treatments available. For a thorough assessment of your sinus headache discomfort and possible treatment options, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gallivan by contacting the Northwest Sinus Center in Bend, OR at (855) 746-8700.