• Sinus headache symptoms include facial swelling, feeling of fullness in the ears, fever and persistent facial pain.
• Migraines and sinus headaches have some things in common, but there are ways to tell the difference.
• Balloon sinuplasty is a highly effective solution for chronic sinusitis.
Anyone who thinks they might have chronic sinusitis or any other sinus condition could benefit from seeing a specialist, a doctor based in both Stamford and Norwalk told Connecticut Business Daily. Those sinus headaches may not be obvious to everyone, according to Dr. Robert Weiss of CT ENT Sinus Center.
"Facial pain is a big part, a significant component," Weiss said. "It's one of the symptoms that we try to ask about. There are many reasons people get headaches and facial pain when their sinuses are not healthy. The biggest reason is usually a pressure issue. The sinuses need to drain, but they also need to exchange oxygen and CO2 and equalize pressure."
Weiss, director and founder of CT ENT Sinus Center, is a board-certified otolaryngologist, head and neck surgeon, a member of seven preeminent medical associations and societies, and is associated with Norwalk Hospital.
Inflamed sinuses, typically due to allergic reactions or infections, cause swelling and increased mucus production, and could even lead to blockage and poor drainage, according to WebMD. Buildup in the sinuses can cause headache-like pain and sinus headache symptoms such as facial swelling, a feeling of fullness in the ears, fever and persistent pain in the cheekbones, forehead and/or the bridge of the nose.
Sinus headaches often are mistaken for migraines or tension headaches. Sinus headaches and migraines do share some symptoms, but symptoms unique to migraines include nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light, noise or smells, according to the American Migraine Foundation.
Sinusitis sufferers may be offered surgical treatment options, including endoscopy and balloon sinuplasty, according to WebMD. Balloon sinuplasty, a newer treatment, is a good option for patients who don't require anything to be removed from the sinuses.
During a balloon sinuplasty, the physician extends a thin tube with a small balloon attached to one end into the nose and then guides the balloon to the blocked area before inflating it. The inflated balloon helps clear the passageway, allowing sinuses to drain properly and alleviate congestion.
If you're experiencing sinus headaches or chronic sinusitis, visit CT ENT Sinus Center, Hearing & Balance for more information.