Sinus Headaches

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can access exceptional care for sinus headaches. As a global leader in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For over a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for ear, nose and throat (ENT) and head and neck conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for complex specialty care according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT and head and neck conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists has pioneered many of the otorhinolaryngological techniques used today and is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

When you need sinus headache care, turn to our dedicated providers for a personalized treatment plan.

A sinus headache is a type of headache characterized by pain or pressure around the eyes, cheeks and forehead, often feeling fullness in the face.

Sinus headaches often develop when the sinus cavities, located in the forehead, cheeks and nose, become inflamed or blocked. This can cause mucus buildup and increased pressure. Often, headaches located in or around the sinuses are due to inflammation in the nasal cavity rather than the sinuses or other neurologic conditions that are not related to the sinuses. A thorough history and examination is necessary to determine the true cause of the headaches. Several factors can contribute to sinus headaches, including:

• Allergic reactions
• Changes in air pressure
• Environmental irritants
• Nasal polyps 
• Sinus infections

There are a variety of symptoms which can indicate Sinus headaches, including:

• A stuffy nose that may last longer than a cold 
• Feeling tired even without working 
• Pain or discomfort in the upper teeth 
• Pain or pressure in the forehead, cheeks or brow that worsens when bending forward or lying down

Other symptoms include fever, chills, facial swelling, yellow or green discharge from the nose, postnasal drip, sore throat, cough and dizziness.

To diagnose sinus headaches, a physician will examine your nose to check for congestion and nasal discharge. They will also press on areas of your face to check for tenderness and shine a light through the sinuses to look for sinus inflammation. If chronic sinusitis is suspected, your healthcare provider may order imaging tests, including an X-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment for sinus headaches depends on the type and severity of the condition and its underlying cause. These treatments include:

• Allergy treatments
• Lifestyle modifications
• Medications
• Saline nasal irrigation
   

For persistent or severe cases, we offer advanced interventions, including:

• Allergy desensitization therapy
• Balloon sinus dilation
• Endoscopic sinus surgery