For Floridians all over the state, sinus headaches are a common complaint. If you fall into that group, then this blog is for you. In it, we’ll cover the basics of just what a sinus headache is, what causes one, and we’ll detail some simple solutions on how to clear your sinus to provide long-lasting relief, including a trip to Dr. Mandel at Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists.
What Is a Sinus Headache?
It’s widely understood that sinus headaches are commonly misdiagnosed as migraines. While the pain and symptoms associated with each may be similar, migraines and sinus headaches have different root causes.
A sinus headache is a symptom of your sinuses (small, air-filled cavities located inside your facial structure) becoming swollen, filled with mucus, and unable to drain. The pressure which results from this is felt as pain in certain points of the head and can range from mildly uncomfortable to excruciating in some cases. Usual symptoms of a sinus headache include:
- Pain and pressure located in the cheeks, nose, and forehead.
- Watery eyes
- Nasal congestion
- Exhaustion
- Toothache
- Nausea
- Increased sensitivity to light and noise
- Inability to engage in physical activities
Sinus headaches are often an indication that you may be suffering from a sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, which affects nearly 30 million adults annually. If this is the case, then the headaches will likely be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or abnormally colored mucus. Alternatively, you may be experiencing the painful pressure due to allergies, which are common in Florida year-round.
Stay Away From OTC Treatments
Whatever the cause, many who suffer from sinus-induced headaches tend to first reach for over-the-counter treatments (OTC treatments) because they promise immediate relief. However, this relief is fleeting at best, and at worst, excessive use of OTC treatments can exacerbate symptoms and even lead to permanent damage to the nasal canal.
With this in mind, some may turn toward prescriptions, since they offer more powerful and lasting relief. Nonetheless, these medications can be expensive and usually cultivate dependency and resistance within those who use them, meaning higher dosage and continued use is necessary. In short, like OTC methods, prescription medications, too, are alleviatory, rather than preventative for issues relating to sinus pressure points.
So, if OTC and prescriptions remedies aren’t the answer, then what’s left? Thankfully, at Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists, internationally recognized otolaryngologist Dr. Lee Mandel has pioneered some of the most effective methods for providing long term relief from sinus pressure and allergy-related headaches available today, such as a balloon sinuplasty.
Get The Relief You Deserve at Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists
If you’re currently keeping allergy and sinus headaches at bay using OTC treatments for prescriptions, then you are likely at the mercy of the headaches themselves. Florida Sinus & Snoring Specialists can help you pursue the quality of life you’re dreaming about. Call 954-983-1211 or request a consultation with Dr. Mandel today.
