ALLERGY HEADACHE

Allergy headaches are often caused by sinus headaches and migraines. There is pain in the sinuses which may extend into one side of the face. Usually pain is localized over the affected sinus. Obstruction in other sinuses can cause headaches or pain in other places. Sinus pain may be dull to extreme; it traditionally starts in the morning and turns into less severe after you move from lying flat to a sitting or standing position.

For all headaches, determine triggers and restrict them. For alleviation of sinus headaches, make changes in your residence and in your behavior. Take some nonprescription (over-the-counter) drugs.

Two forms of headaches are linked to allergy symptoms: sinus headaches and migraines. Cluster headaches mostly are mistakenly linked to allergic reactions. They don’t seem to be an allergic reaction and aren’t treated with the same medications as the other allergic headaches.

Allergy Headache Symptoms

Discomfort is localized over the sinuses, probably inflicting facial pain than a headache, which is related to sinus headaches

Throbbing, probably one-sided headaches that are aggravated by sunlight and have nausea (associated with migraine headache)

Sinus Headache

Sinus headaches and discomfort occur when the sinuses are swollen and their openings into the nasal passages are obstructed, stopping usual normal drainage and inflicting pressure to build up.

Usually pain is localized over the affected sinus. Obstruction in other sinuses can cause headaches or pain in other places. Sinus pain may be dull to extreme; it traditionally starts in the morning and turns into less severe after you move from lying flat to a sitting or standing position.

Allergy Headache Triggers:

  • Nasal or sinus congestion
  • Stress
  • Certain foods
  • Smoke

Diagnosis & Medications/Treatment

For all headaches, determine triggers and restrict them.

For alleviation of sinus headaches, make changes in your residence and in your behavior.

Take some nonprescription (over-the-counter) drugs.

See an allergy specialist for prescription medicines, which could offer relief. Examples of these medicines are allergy medicines, steroids and even nasal sprays.

The primary way in managing sinus complications is to restrict allergens that trigger them. Minimize outdoor exposure and keep indoors when triggers, such as excessive pollen counts, are at their peak, usually in midmorning and early night, and when wind is blowing pollens around.

Restrict using window fans that may draw pollens and molds into the residence.

Wear glasses or sun shades when in open air to minimize the quantity of pollen getting into your eyes, as this can cause your sinuses to flare up.

Maintain windows closed, and use air conditioning in the car and at home. Keep your air conditioning unit clean.

Lessen exposure to dirt mites, especially in the bed room. Use “mite-proof” covers for pillows, comforters and duvets, and mattresses and box springs.

To limit exposure to mildew, preserve the humidity in your dwelling to keep it low (between 30 and 50 percent) and clean your bathrooms, kitchen and basement often. Use a dehumidifier, especially within the basement and in different damp, humid locations, and empty and clean it often. If mildew is visible, clean it with detergent and a 5 percent bleach solution as directed by the allergist.

Clean your floors with a damp rag or mop, rather than dry-dusting or sweeping.

Wash your hands instantly after petting any animals. Wash your garments after playing with pets.

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