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Sinus headaches

 

Sinus problems are a common cause of facial pain and headaches. Sinuses can be affected by allergies and viral and bacterial infections. In addition to headaches, patients with sinusitis will often experience:

Pain and pressure around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead
Tooth pain
Facial swelling
Yellow or green drainage from the nose
Nasal congestion

However, not every headache is due to sinus problems. Migraines, tension headaches, and a number of other medical problems can cause headaches. Jaw problems (see section on

 

TMJ) are a common cause of headaches. Brain tumors, sinus or nasal tumors can also cause headaches. Many people are surprised to learn that the "sinus" headache they have been having is really a migraine. Remember, over the counter "sinus" medicines will often have aspirin or Tylenol like products in them. These pain medicines will dull any pain regardless of the cause. So just because you get better after taking a "sinus" medicine does not, necessarily, make it a sinus problem.

Needless to say that accurate diagnosis is the key to the treatment of sinus problems. ENT physicians are experts at the diagnosis and the treatment of sinusitis. In addition to a thorough history and physical, the ENT physician can use a telescope to examine the deeper parts of the nose where sinus infections drain. An ordinary general practitioner cannot do this. ENT physician will often do a CT scan to further assess the status of the sinuses.

If the infection and the blockage is not very severe, you ENT will prescribe antibiotics and other medicines, such as decongestants. If the infection and blockage are severe, you may need surgery.
ENT physicians are the sinus treatment specialists and can offer the full range of treatment, from diagnosis to medical to surgical treatment. If you or a loved one is experiencing sinus problems, please call our offices to arrange a consultation with one of our skilled physicians.