SE LA Times

• Your sinuses are located inside your forehead, cheekbones, and behind your nose.
• Headaches related to sinus issues typically involve discomfort and pressure in the facial region.
• Consulting with a sinus specialist for tailored treatment may improve your ability to manage and alleviate headache challenges.

If you're grappling with headaches, they could be stemming from sinus congestion. Dr. Matt Hershcovitch of SoCal Breathe Free said sinus headaches come from inflammation and pressure in the sinuses.

"Sinus headaches are essentially caused by a buildup of inflammation and pressure within the sinus cavities themselves. This is because the openings are extremely narrow, so you have structural deficits, causing things to build up in the sinuses," Dr. Hershcovitch told the SE LA Times. "In addition to the narrow openings, you have a lot of inflammation in the sinus cavities themselves and around the openings, causing them to stay shut. The bacteria then build up in the sinuses, and they often secrete gases that increase the pressure within that closed cavity. That's going to create a significant, very annoying, very painful headache."

Sinuses are air-filled cavities located within your forehead, cheekbones, and behind the bridge of your nose, according to WebMD. When these spaces become inflamed, often due to an allergic reaction or infection, they undergo swelling, increased mucus production, and potential blockage of draining channels. The resulting pressure buildup in your sinuses manifests as pain resembling a headache.

WebMD lists short-term antibiotics, antihistamines, or decongestants as treatments for these types of headaches. The publication notes secondary treatments such as inhaled nasal decongestants, pain relievers, and, if ineffective, corticosteroids can be prescribed to reduce sinus inflammation. In more serious cases, a sinus procedure may be recommended to address persistent swelling, which can, in turn, treat headaches caused by sinusitis.

According to the Mayo Clinic, if you're experiencing sinus headaches for more than 15 days per month and over-the-counter medication isn't helpful enough, or if your headaches are interfering with your daily life, it's strongly advised to seek treatment from a specialist.

Dr. Hershcovitch received his undergraduate degree in nuclear engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), according to SoCal Breathe Free's website. He continued his education at the State University of New York for medical school. Dr. Hershcovitch finished his residency training in head and neck surgery at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and wrapped up his training with a fellowship in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at Stanford University.