Chronic Sinus Headache

Dr. Nishit Shah, an ENT specialist commented that it is extremely rare for a patient with chronic headache to have “chronic” sinusitis. You can have either migraine or tension headache or a combination of both. In other word, you cannot get chronic sinus headache.

All types of headaches share some similar symptoms especially sinus congestion. Migraine and cluster headache sufferers often have sinus congestions along with their headaches. A recent study of 30 victims who claimed to have chronic sinus headaches showed that 97% did not have sinus headaches, but had the classic symptoms of migraines instead. Most sufferers who relate their head pains to chronic sinus headaches are actually having chronic tension headaches. This is why sufferers often misdiagnose sinus headache which in actual fact, could be a tension headache or a migraine.

Although there is no such thing as chronic sinus headaches, however, sinusitis which lead to sinus headache can be chronic. Chronic sinusitis happens when a sinus opening is blocked for an extended period. It seldom causes head pain. The symptoms for chronic sinusitis can last for more than three months. Dysfunction of the mucous and cilia layer of the lining of the sinuses due to repeated inflammations cause chronic sinusitis. However, it has never been the case of chronic infections.

Always remember that not all headaches are sinusitis. You probably have seen many ads for sinus headache relief and you quickly equate your headache with sinusitis. In fact, only ten percent of patients treated for sinusitis actually have problems with their sinuses. The rest maybe suffering from headaches, but not due to their inflamed sinuses.

However, if you suffer from chronic headaches, consult a doctor to examine the cause and to recommend remedies and medications to prevent and treat them.