Introduction

Headaches can be annoying and can restrict you from doing certain activities, but you should know that not all headaches are the same. Two types which as often confused with each other are sinus and cluster headaches. Knowing their symptoms, causes, and treatment options available can help you choose the most effective headache relief for yourself.

In case you are having an excessively painful headache often, Dr Varun Kodam, a Best Headache specialist in Hyderabad, can help treat your condition.

What is a Sinus Headache?

A headache that manifests due to inflammation of the sinus membranes is referred to as a sinus headache. A sinus infection (sinusitis), allergies, or nasal congestion will often lead to inflammation. Pressing pain is experienced at the nose, eyes and forehead region. Pain is commonly burdensome, aching, and deep in nature.

Symptoms of a Sinus Headache

• Pain in forehead and cheeks

• Nasal congestion accompanied with runny nasal cavity

• Increase of pain while bending the head forward

• Fever alongside a considerable amount of fatigue (when due to infection)

Treatment for Sinus Headaches

• Antihistamines for sinus headache linked with an allergy

• Steam inhalation or warm packing to relax muscles and open sinus passages

• Mucus spray to unclog the nose

• Antibiotics to treat bacteria infected sinus headaches

• Swelling reducing sprays like oxymetazoline or pseudoephedrine

A cluster headache: what is it?

Cluster headaches, which occur in clusters—that is, many assaults over weeks or months, followed by periods of remission—are among the most excruciating headache forms. Usually, the pain is concentrated on one side of the head, particularly the area surrounding the eye, and is intense and sharp.

Cluster headache symptoms include

• Excruciating, stabbing pain that lasts anywhere from 15 minutes to 3 hours

• Red, teary eyes on the side that is affected

• Runny or clogged nose on the side that is affected

• Drooping eyelids and face sweating

• Anxiety or restlessness during an attack

Treatment Options for Cluster Headaches Include

• Triptans (pain-relieving injections or nasal sprays) and oxygen therapy (breathing pure oxygen can lessen an episode).

• Preventive drugs such as corticosteroids, calcium channel blockers, or nerve-blocking agents

• Steer clear of triggers like smoking, alcohol, and strong odors

When Should I See a Physician?

You should see a professional if your headaches are severe, regular, or interfere with your day-to-day activities. One of the top headache doctors in Hyderabad, Dr. Varun Kodam, specializes in identifying and treating a variety of headache conditions, such as cluster and sinus headaches.