LAX Leader

• Your sinuses are located inside your forehead, cheekbones, and behind your nose.
• Headaches related to sinus issues typically involve discomfort and pressure in the facial region.
• Consulting with a sinus specialist for tailored treatment may improve your ability to manage and alleviate headache challenges.

If you're grappling with headaches, they could be stemming from sinus congestion. Dr. Farhad Sigari of Del Rey MD said sinus headaches differ from migraines or headaches caused by tension.

"Normally, these issues might not be noticeable, but if there's swelling due to congestion, inflammation, sinus infections, or allergies, it can lead to significant headaches," Dr. Sigari told LAX Leader. "These headaches are distinct from migraines or tension headaches. A telling sign is if a decongestant provides significant relief, as this suggests a sinus-related issue."

Sinuses are air-filled cavities located within your forehead, cheekbones, and behind the bridge of your nose, according to WebMD. When these spaces become inflamed, often due to an allergic reaction or infection, they undergo swelling, increased mucus production, and potential blockage of draining channels. The resulting pressure buildup in your sinuses manifests as pain resembling a headache.

WebMD lists short-term antibiotics, antihistamines, or decongestants as treatments for these types of headaches. The publication notes secondary treatments such as inhaled nasal decongestants, pain relievers, and, if ineffective, corticosteroids can be prescribed to reduce sinus inflammation. In more serious cases, a sinus procedure may be recommended to address persistent swelling, which can, in turn, treat headaches caused by sinusitis.

According to the Mayo Clinic, if you're experiencing sinus headaches for more than 15 days per month and over-the-counter medication isn't helpful enough, or if your headaches are interfering with your daily life, it's strongly advised to seek treatment from a specialist.

Dr. Sigari earned his bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering from the University of California, San Diego, where he helped research heart disease, according to Del Rey MD's website. He continued his education at Chicago Medical School, obtaining degrees in medicine, applied physiology, and pathology. Dr. Sigari then completed surgical internship training, with a focus on otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, at the University of Chicago Hospital.