Allergy Headaches
One of the most common types of pain and discomfort felt by people worldwide is a headache. Despite being “common,” they are one of the top reasons people miss school or work. Headaches can be overwhelming and often debilitating, affecting even the simplest daily tasks.
Effective treatment for sinus headaches is only possible when a contributing condition is diagnosed. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), two different types of headaches are linked to allergies: sinus headaches and migraines. Sinus headaches typically cause facial pain and pressure, while migraines can cause moderate to severe pain that feels like throbbing and can be accompanied by nausea. Both of these types of headaches can be triggered by nasal or sinus congestion, stress, smoke, or certain foods, according to the ACAAI.
Because allergy headache symptoms have a great deal in common with migraine symptoms, many people take medications that will never provide relief. A sinus headache is most typically caused by infection or congestion of the sinuses, manifesting as either an acute or chronic condition. Acute sinus headaches will respond well to medication because a prescription will treat the infection; when the infection is healed, the headaches will cease.
However, headaches that are persistent and prone to recurrence are commonly the result of a chronic sinus problem. Sinus headaches are normally experienced around the eyes, forehead, nose, and cheekbones. The feeling of pain or tension in the face becomes more severe with serious congestion or infection of the sinuses. Sufferers of allergies and asthma are prone to sinus headaches as a secondary complication.
Many doctors are content to prescribe allergy medication, which only addresses the symptoms of allergy-induced sinus headaches. While these prescriptions will provide substantial relief, they will not address the underlying issues. Dr. Greg Levitin is committed to examining the cause of congestion and infection of the sinuses because he knows that it is a much more effective means of providing a long-lasting reprieve from overall symptoms and any potential recurrence.
Contact Dr. Greg Levitin today to schedule an appointment.
