As the weather cools and leaves begin to change, fall allergies can become a common complaint for many. While most people associate allergies with symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, persistent headaches can also be a troublesome side effect. If you have been dealing with long-lasting headaches during allergy season, you may be wondering if your allergies are to blame. The answer is yes– fall allergies can indeed lead to persistent headaches. In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between allergies and headaches, as well as discuss when to seek professional care.
For same-day seasonal allergy relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark. Our center is conveniently located at 77 Central Avenue, Unit 5 in Clark, NJ. No appointments are required– just walk-in today!
How Fall Allergies Trigger Headaches
Fall allergies are often triggered by an increase in pollen from ragweed, mold spores, and dust mites, which become more prevalent in cooler, drier weather. When you are exposed to these allergens, your immune system reacts by releasing histamines and other chemicals to fight off what it perceives as harmful invaders. This immune response can cause nasal congestion and sinus inflammation, leading to sinus headaches. Sinus headaches are a common type of headache experienced during allergy season. They occur when the sinuses become inflamed or congested. This congestion creates pressure and pain around the forehead, eyes, nose, and cheeks.
Common characteristics of these allergy-related headaches include:
- Pressure or pain around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks
- Pain that worsens when bending over or lying down
- Nasal congestion or a runny nose
- Tenderness in the face
These headaches can persist as long as your sinuses remain inflamed, and they often become worse during peak allergy season when exposure to allergens is high.
Sinus vs. Migraine Headaches
It’s important to note that not all headaches during allergy season are sinus headaches. Migraines, which are intense headaches often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances, can also be triggered by allergies. While sinus headaches are caused by inflammation and congestion, migraines may be triggered by histamine release, which can lead to inflammation in blood vessels and nerves in the brain. If your headache is accompanied by other migraine symptoms, such as throbbing pain, sensitivity to light or sound, or nausea, you may be experiencing a migraine rather than a sinus headache.
How To Relieve Allergy-Induced Headaches
If fall allergies are causing persistent headaches, managing your allergies is the first step in finding relief. Here are some ways to reduce allergy-related headaches:
1. Take Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines can reduce the body’s allergic response and help prevent the inflammation that leads to sinus congestion and headaches.
2. Use Nasal Sprays: Saline nasal sprays can help clear congestion and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses.
3. Stay Indoors on High Pollen Days: If pollen is a known trigger for your allergies, try to stay indoors on days when pollen counts are high. Keep windows closed and use air purifiers to reduce allergens in your home.
4. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can make headaches worse. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated.
Get Walk-In Seasonal Allergy Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Clark
If your headaches are persistent or severe, it’s important to seek medical advice. While many allergy-related headaches can be managed with over-the-counter remedies, some cases may require professional treatment, such as allergy testing or prescription medication. Whether you’re dealing with sinus headaches or migraines triggered by allergies, proper management of your allergy symptoms is key to finding relief. If you are experiencing prolonged headaches during allergy season, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark for a same-day diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
Our experienced team of healthcare providers can provide the best treatment and recommendations for care – every day of the week! We accept most major health insurances and offer cost-effective care for self-pay patients. For more information about our seasonal allergy treatment, or other services we provide, please call us directly at (732) 301-5114.
