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Migraine and Sinus Relief

Migraine and sinus headaches are frequently mistaken for each other. However, these two ailments arise from different sources. Some treatments can be used for both headache types, but certain medications and preventative measures differ, depending on whether the headache is migraine or sinus related.

  1. Sinus Headache

    • Sinus headaches may involve symptoms of fever, facial tenderness and swelling, sore throat and general feeling of fatigue. This type of headache is caused by a cold or flu and allergies, all of which cause the nasal passages to swell and become congested. Treat a sinus headache with antihistamines like Claritin or Benadryl and decongestant sprays or oral tabs. Visit a doctor if you have frequent sinus headaches. A doctor can prescribe a nasal steroid if symptoms persist and can check for more serious problems that require further diagnosis. Combat sinus headaches with lifestyle changes such as using a humidifier, using nasal salt spray daily and performing neck rolls and stretches to increase circulation. Add supplements to your diet of Bromelain and Quercetin or probiotics. Eucalyptus, Sinupret, Devil's Claw and Willow bark are herbs that have been found to help relieve sinus pressure. Homeopathic remedies, chiropractic therapy and acupuncture offer alternative relief as well.

    Migraine Headache

    • A migraine headache has the symptoms of nausea, sensitivity to light, noise and movement, throbbing sensations in the head and fatigue. Migraine headaches result from enlarged blood vessels in the head that affect the surrounding nerves. The nerves expel chemicals that cause further inflammation, which in turn causes pain and the release of more chemicals. Thus migraine headaches are difficult to combat. Migraine headaches often are the reaction of stress on the body and are related to tension headaches. Some of the easiest relief aides are sleep, ice or hot compresses, over the counter drugs like Advil or Tylenol and in some cases, consuming caffeine. Be sure to see a doctor if symptoms persist. A doctor can prescribe a triptan or ergot medications that work by constricting the blood vessels. Acupuncture is an alternative treatment for migraine headaches.

    Tips

    • Always consult a doctor if basic relief aides do not work or the headache reappears on a regular basis, because this could be the result of a serious health issue. Read all instruction and warning labels before ingesting over the counter medicines or other remedies. Prevention is the key to fighting headaches; eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep and exercise and taking care of your mental well-being is necessary to lessen the effects of migraine and sinus headaches.

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