A throbbing head, pressure behind your eyes, and a stuffy nose– if that sounds familiar, you may be dealing with a sinus headache. These headaches often go hand-in-hand with sinus infections or inflammation, but they’re frequently mistaken for other types of headaches, such as migraines or tension headaches. Understanding the difference can help you get the right treatment and much-needed relief. Keep reading to learn more about sinus headaches and when it might be time to seek medical attention.
For same-day sinus headache treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands. Our experienced medical team is available seven days a week to treat your condition– both in-person and via telemedicine. Walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
How To Identify The Symptoms of a Sinus Headache
A sinus headache occurs when the sinuses– the air-filled cavities in your forehead, cheeks, and behind your nose– become inflamed or blocked. This leads to increased pressure and pain in the face and head. Most sinus headaches are linked to sinus infections (also known as sinusitis), which may be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies. The pain from a sinus headache is usually centered in the face and head, but the symptoms can affect your overall well-being. You may experience:
- A deep, constant ache in your forehead, cheekbones, or bridge of the nose
- Facial tenderness or swelling, especially when touching or pressing on sinus areas
- Nasal congestion or a runny nose
- Postnasal drip (mucus draining down the back of your throat)
- Pain that worsens when bending over or lying down
- Ear pressure or fullness
- Fatigue or mild fever (in cases of infection)
Because sinus headache symptoms overlap with those of migraines, it’s important to pay attention to nasal symptoms. If your headache comes with congestion and facial pressure, rather than sensitivity to light or nausea, it’s more likely a sinus issue.
What Causes a Sinus Headache?
Sinus headaches typically result from sinus inflammation or blockage, which can be caused by:
1. Viral upper respiratory infections (like the common cold)
2. Bacterial sinus infections
3. Allergies, especially during seasonal changes
4. Deviated septum or nasal polyps that impair sinus drainage
If your sinus headache is due to an infection, symptoms may last longer than 10 days or worsen after initial improvement. Allergies, on the other hand, may cause recurring sinus headaches without fever or discolored mucus.
How To Treat a Sinus Headache
Treatment depends on the cause of the headache. Here’s what can help:
- Nasal decongestants to reduce swelling
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Saline nasal sprays or rinses to flush out mucus
- Steam inhalation or warm compresses to ease facial pressure
- Antibiotics, if a bacterial sinus infection is diagnosed
- Antihistamines, if allergies are the trigger
If your sinus headache is severe, persistent, or comes with a fever, facial swelling, or discolored nasal discharge, it’s time to seek medical care. At an urgent care center, a provider can evaluate your symptoms, rule out other conditions, and prescribe antibiotics or other treatments if needed.
Get Walk-In Headache Relief in Denver, CO at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands
A sinus headache can disrupt your day, but relief is within reach once you identify the cause and start the right treatment. Whether your symptoms are tied to a cold, infection, or allergies, visiting urgent care can provide fast, effective relief. Don’t wait for the pressure to build, get the help you need to start feeling better today. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands. Our team of board-certified medical providers are available 7 days a week to treat your condition, with no appointment required. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sinus headache treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 477-6000.
