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Sinus headaches |
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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
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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.
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