It’s a scenario the Bend Headache Center encounters often: a patient comes in with complaints of severe headaches. The question is, are they suffering from sinus headaches or migraines? It’s not always easy to tell the difference, but knowing can change your approach to treatment, and ultimately, your quality of life.
Types of Headaches: Migraine or Sinus?
Both sinus headaches and migraines can cause intense pain and interfere with daily activities, yet they have different causes and require different treatments.
Migraines
Despite migraines affecting over a billion people worldwide, this type of headache is often misunderstood and undiagnosed.
- The headache is often felt on only one side of the head.
- The pain is usually throbbing or pulsating.
- There is sensitivity to light, sounds, or even certain smells.
- It may be accompanied by nausea or vomiting.
- Visual disturbances or “aura” can happen before the headache.
Sinus Headaches
Sinus headaches, often confused with migraines, result from the inflammation of sinuses, often due to infection or allergies.
- Pain is felt in the area of the sinus cavities, including the forehead, cheekbones, and bridge of the nose.
- There is pressure or fullness in the face.
- Fever, runny nose, or other signs of a sinus infection may be present.
- The pain usually worsens with sudden head movement or straining.
Differences Between Migraine and Sinus Headache
While migraines and sinus headaches can have overlapping symptoms, a few key differences can help tell them apart.
Presence of Other Symptoms
By far, one of the most significant indicators is the presence of other symptoms besides the headache. Symptoms such as a fever, stuffy nose, and facial pressure might suggest a sinus headache, while nausea and sensitivity to light and sound often indicate a migraine.
Response to Treatment
Both types of headaches respond differently to treatments. If your symptoms improve with the use of decongestants and antihistamines, it might be a sinus headache. Migraines, however, often require more specialized treatment.
Treatment at Bend Headache Center
As a center committed to non-surgical and drug-free solutions, the Bend Headache Center offers comprehensive treatment plans for both migraines and sinus headaches. From lifestyle and dietary changes to therapies designed to reduce pain and inflammation, our center has the tools and knowledge necessary to help patients gain better control over their headaches.
At the Bend Headache Center, we understand headaches; we know when it’s a migraine or a sinus headache. Our compassionate and experienced team will work with you to create a custom treatment plan that suits your individual needs.
