Causes and risk factors
Sinusitis is mostly due to infection, allergy or autoimmune factor. Infection is mostly viral. Smoking is an important risk factor. Dental infection can lead to maxillary sinusitis where inflammatory exudate from infected tooth drains into maxillary sinus. Also, defect in Eustachian tube can cause sinusitis. Exposure to cold , dust, pollution, climatic changes are some of the predisposing factors.
Clinical presentation
Pain around eyes and above the nose which are worse on movement like bending, shaking head. A sinus headache is associated with other symptoms like nasal obstruction, congestion, coryza, sore throat, fatigue. In acute cases, fever may be present. Sinusitis can be acute or chronic.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. An X–ray paranasal sinus is recommended usually. In case of infection lasting for prolonged period CT scan is advised. Nasal endoscopy and Sinusoscopy also may be suggested.
Treatment
Medications like Antihistamines, nasal decongestant help in relieving the complaints. Steroids and NSAIDS can also be prescribed. Nasal irrigation help in keeping nasal cavity moist and clearing the mucus.
Rest, drinking adequate water, steam inhalation, avoidance of allergens is recommended.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating sinus headache. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating sinus headache.
Recent updates
Recent studies have shown that 99% of sinus headaches with fibromyalgia are nothing but migraine. Migraines are often misdiagnosed with sinus headaches.
