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What’s the difference between and migraine and a sinus headache?

It’s quite difficult to differentiate between a sinus headache and a migraine, but there are some general guidelines that might help. Sinus headache is a headache caused by paranasal sinus infection. It usually is accompanied by green-yellow sinus drainage, stuffy nose, fever, cough, sore throat and enlarged lymph nodes. The sinus headache pain is generally localized behind your eyes, nose or your forehead area and gets worse if you bend over or lie down. Sinus headache usually requires two different approaches, to relieve the pain and to treat the sinus infection. Antibiotics for sinus infection might be necessary to treat your infection and a decongestant pain reliever drug will help you with painful sinus headache pressure. Salt water rinse of nasal passages, warm compress applied to the painful areas might help to ease some of the discomfort.

If you don’t display any of the mentioned above symptoms, chances are that you might be suffering from a migraine. In the case if your migraines are especially strong, recurring and make you miss work or simply make you feel miserable, you are advised to see a general practitioner for evaluation. The root cause of migraines is the most debated topic among health professionals. The most recently discovered cause for migraines is believed to be a nervous system disorder, specifically in the brain stem, setting off a pain chain reaction. Certain things can trigger a migraine like sensitivity to certain foods, alcohol, coffee, MSG, bright lights, loud noises, sleep deprivation, stress, hormonal imbalance and much more. Knowing your specific migraine triggers will help you control them and avoid an onset of your headache. There’s a variety of natural solutions for relieving your migraines once it strikes: green apple scent is a proven aromatherapy headache treatment, massaging your ears and the crown of your head will relieve pressure and help with increased blood circulation, relaxation techniques might also ease your discomfort.

The information supplied in this article is not intended as medical advice and should be used for educational purposes only.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.

One Response to “What’s the difference between and migraine and a sinus headache?”

  1. 1
    Erin Says:
    I am a broken record here but I have to say again, try a neti pot! Keeping the nasal passages clear can go a loooong way toward helping w/ any ENT issues. This definitely includes headaches. I have also seen a number of people who still need additional measures after having sinus surgery. This is another case where "options" become key and many are turning to newer alternatives like balloon sinuplasty. Take care.