Headache due
to sinusitis
Sinusitis headache, also known as sinusitis headache, is a type of headache that occurs due to inflammation of the sinuses.
The sinuses are small air-filled spaces in the skull, located in the cheekbones, behind and between the eyes and on the forehead.
When these sinuses become inflamed, it can lead to headaches.
You may also have a sinus headache, i.e. only pain in the sinuses, but without inflammatory symptoms.
In this case, migraine is usually the cause.
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Headache due to sinusitis is a painful condition that occurs due to inflammation of the sinuses.
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Remember that sinus headaches/headaches due to sinusitis can be similar to migraines.
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Treatment includes rest, painkillers, nasal sprays, and in some cases antibiotics.
How common is it?
Sinusitis most commonly affects adults and older children, and is most prevalent in winter. Women are affected almost twice as often as men. Keep in mind that many people who see a doctor with a sinus headache actually turn out to have a migraine.
Typical symptoms
Symptoms of sinusitis include headache, nasal congestion, and tenderness over the sinuses in the forehead or cheeks. Other symptoms may include fever, toothache, and cough.
What kind of mechanisms are behind it?
The sinuses produce mucus, which normally runs out through the openings of the nose. During a sinus infection, the mucous membrane in the sinuses becomes inflamed and swollen. This can block the openings to the nose and throat so that the mucus does not drain out, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to multiply.
How long does a seizure last?
Acute sinusitis usually lasts for 1-2 weeks. If the inflammation lasts over 3 months, it is characterized as chronic sinusitis.
How often do headaches occur?
Headaches due to sinusitis can last for days, weeks or months.
What triggers the headache?
The inflammation often occurs after a viral infection, for example after a cold or flu. The headache is often worst in the morning or when bending forward.
What makes the headache worse during an attack?
It's common for headaches to get worse when you bend down. Keep in mind that this is also the case for migraines, and some other vascular headache types
Hvordan får man diagnosen?
Bihulebetennelse diagnostiseres vanligvis ut fra symptomene. Hvis bihulebetennelsen er uvanlig kraftig eller tilbakevendende, kan det bli nødvendig å henvise til røntgen/CT undersøkelse eller øre-nese-hals-spesialist.
Treatment
Acute sinusitis often goes away on its own within 1-2 weeks.
Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can relieve pain and fever.
Nasal sprays, such as saline sprays or cortisone sprays, can help with nasal congestion.
In the case of bacterial sinusitis, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Do not use antibiotics if there is only pain in the sinuses, without infection.
Prevention
To prevent sinusitis, it is important to maintain good hygiene, especially during the flu season.
Avoid contact with people who have a cold or flu and wash your hands regularly.
