Nassau Standard

• 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. Joseph Capo of Capo Nose & Sinus Center said sinus-related issues can lead to headaches in the facial area.

"A sinus headache is a type of headache that occurs as a result of sinus inflammation, Dr. Capo told the Nassau Standard. "The most common locations for sinus headaches are typically in the forehead area, where the frontal sinuses are situated, as well as in the cheeks. These headaches are often associated with sinusitis or other sinus-related issues."

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. Capo is the founder of the Capo Nose & Sinus Center, according to the clinic's website. After completing a five-year residency in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan, Dr. Capo focused primarily on treating people with sinus and nasal disorders. He has conducted more than 1000 sinus procedures and also performs septoplasty and Latera nasal valve implant procedures in-office.