What is the sphenoid sinus? Where is it located? How can you get relief from sinus headaches? Discover the answers to these questions and more in this comprehensive article.

Understanding the Sphenoid Sinus

The sphenoid sinus is one of the four connected spaces within the human skull, located behind the forehead, eyes, nose, and cheeks. These sinuses produce mucus that drains directly into the nose, helping to keep bacteria, dirt, and other irritants out. Normally, the sinuses are filled with air, but certain conditions can lead to blockages.

Causes of Sinus Blockages

Allergies, colds, certain pollutants (like dust or smoke), and nasal growths called polyps can all contribute to sinus blockages. When the sinuses become blocked, it can lead to a buildup of pressure and the development of a sinus headache.

Conventional Treatments for Sinus Headaches

Over-the-counter decongestants can provide short-term relief for sinus headaches, but they are not recommended for long-term use. If you’re looking for a more natural approach, or if you have recurring sinus issues, acupuncture may be a helpful alternative.

How Acupuncture Can Help with Sinus Issues

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the flow of qi (energy) throughout the body is believed to be crucial for overall health and well-being. Acupuncture is used to stimulate specific points on the body, which, according to TCM, can help to clear blockages and restore the flow of qi. This, in turn, may provide relief for a range of sinus-related issues, including headaches, pressure, pain, and nasal congestion.

Acupuncture Points for Sinus Relief

There are several acupuncture points that are commonly used to treat sinus issues or allergic rhinitis, including Bitong (EM7), Yingxiang (LI20), Hegu (LI4), Quchi (LI11), Juliao (ST3), Yangbai (GB14), Fenglong (ST40), Shangxing (GV23), Sibai (ST2), and Zanzhu (BI2).

The Evidence on Acupuncture for Sinus Relief

While there are not many studies specifically on the effects of acupuncture on sinus problems, there is some research on the benefits of acupuncture for allergic rhinitis, which can cause a range of sinus-related symptoms. A 2014 review of multiple randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture may provide some relief from allergy symptoms, though more studies are needed. Another 2014 review made similar conclusions, and a 2015 review found that acupuncture may have some advantages over antihistamines, though the studies suggesting these were very small.

Safety Considerations for Acupuncture

When performed by a trained and experienced acupuncturist, acupuncture is generally safe, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. However, it’s important to choose a licensed acupuncturist, as improper technique or unsterile needles could lead to serious side effects. Some mild side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, or pain/tenderness around the needles, may occur after an acupuncture session. Acupuncture should also be avoided if you are pregnant, have a pacemaker, or take blood thinners.

Choosing a Qualified Acupuncturist

When looking for an acupuncturist, it’s important to choose a licensed professional, as they will have significantly more training and experience than someone who is simply certified in acupuncture. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) offers licensing programs and examinations, but the specific licensing requirements can vary by state. You can also ask your primary care physician for a referral or search the NCCAOM directory to find a qualified acupuncturist in your area.

What is the sphenoid sinus?

The sphenoid sinus is one of the four connected spaces within the human skull, located behind the forehead, eyes, nose, and cheeks. These sinuses produce mucus that drains directly into the nose, helping to keep bacteria, dirt, and other irritants out.

What causes sinus blockages?

Allergies, colds, certain pollutants (like dust or smoke), and nasal growths called polyps can all contribute to sinus blockages. When the sinuses become blocked, it can lead to a buildup of pressure and the development of a sinus headache.

Can acupuncture help with sinus issues?

Yes, according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture can help to clear blockages and restore the flow of qi (energy) in the body, which may provide relief for a range of sinus-related issues, including headaches, pressure, pain, and nasal congestion.

What are some common acupuncture points used for sinus relief?

Some common acupuncture points used to treat sinus issues or allergic rhinitis include Bitong (EM7), Yingxiang (LI20), Hegu (LI4), Quchi (LI11), Juliao (ST3), Yangbai (GB14), Fenglong (ST40), Shangxing (GV23), Sibai (ST2), and Zanzhu (BI2).

Is acupuncture safe?

When performed by a trained and experienced acupuncturist, acupuncture is generally safe, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. However, it’s important to choose a licensed acupuncturist, as improper technique or unsterile needles could lead to serious side effects.

How can I find a qualified acupuncturist?

When looking for an acupuncturist, it’s important to choose a licensed professional, as they will have significantly more training and experience than someone who is simply certified in acupuncture. You can check the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) directory or ask your primary care physician for a referral to find a qualified acupuncturist in your area.

How It Works, Research, Points, More

Your sinuses are four connected spaces in your skull, found behind your forehead, eyes, nose, and cheeks. They produce mucus that drains directly into your nose and through it, helping keep bacteria, dirt, and other irritants out.

Generally, your sinuses are empty except for air that moves through the channels linking them. But allergies or a cold can block them up. Certain pollutants, like dust or smoke, and nasal growths called polyps can also cause blockages.

If your sinuses are blocked, you might feel like there’s pressure building up in your face. You might also feel congested and develop a headache. While over-the-counter decongestants can provide some short-term relief, they aren’t great for long-term use.

If you want to try a more natural route or have a recurring sinus issues acupuncture may help.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), your health depends on the flow of qi (energy) in your body. This energy travels along invisible pathways, known as meridians. These are found throughout your body.

Qi is believed to help keep your body in balance and promote its natural ability to heal itself. A blocked or disrupted flow of qi can negatively impact physical and emotional well-being.

During an acupuncture session, very thin needles are inserted into your skin to stimulate certain points, based on the symptoms you’re addressing. This stimulation, according to TCM, helps to clear blockages along your meridians, restoring the flow of qi through your body.

People use acupuncture to help with a range of sinus issues, including headaches, pressure, pain, and nasal congestion.

There are hundreds of acupuncture points across your body. If you try acupuncture, the acupuncturist will take a detailed history of your symptoms before deciding what acupuncture points to use.

Keep in mind that certain points are linked to multiple uses, and not all practitioners use the same points.

Some common acupuncture points used to treat sinus issues or allergic rhinitis include:

• Bitong (EM7)
• Yingxiang (LI20)
• Hegu (LI4)
• Quchi (LI11)
• Juliao (ST3)
• Yangbai (GB14)
• Fenglong (ST40)
• Shangxing (GV23)
• Sibai (ST2)
• Zanzhu (BI2)

There aren’t many studies about the effects of acupuncture on sinus problems. However, there are several studies about the benefits of acupuncture for allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis involves inflammation of the mucus membranes in your nose in response to allergens, which can cause a range of sinus-related issues, including:

• congestion
• runny nose
• headache
• pressure in your face, around your sinuses
• postnasal drip

According to a 2014 review of multiple randomized controlled trials, acupuncture may provide some relief from allergy symptoms, though more studies are needed. Another 2014 review made similar conclusions.

A 2015 review additionally found that acupuncture may have some advantages over antihistamines, thought the studies suggesting these were very small.

the verdict

There’s some evidence that acupuncture can help to manage allergic rhinitis, which causes a range of sinus-related symptoms. While the existing research is promising, many more large, high-quality studies are needed.

When performed by a trained and experienced acupuncturist, acupuncture is generally safe, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

But if acupuncture isn’t performed correctly or needles aren’t sterile, you may be at risk for serious side effects. Licensed acupuncturists in the United States must use disposable needles, so receiving acupuncture from a licensed professional should minimize your risk of complications.

Some people do experience mild side effects after an acupuncture, session, including:

• nausea
• dizziness
• pain or tenderness around the involved areas

It’s also best to avoid acupuncture if you:

• are pregnant, as some points can induce labor
• have a pacemaker, which could be affected by the mild electric pulse that’s sometimes used with acupuncture needles
• take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder

If you’ve decided to give acupuncture a try, it’s essential to choose a qualified acupuncturist. The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) offers licensing programs and examinations, but specific licensing requirements vary by state.

When looking for an acupuncturist, keep in mind that a licensed acupuncturist is not the same as a certified acupuncturist. Doctors, dentists, and other medical professionals may have certification in acupuncture and a few hundred hours of training, but they may have less experience working with patients.

Licensed acupuncturists, on the other hand, typically have a few thousand hours of training and must treat a certain number of people before being licensed.

You can also ask your primary care physician for a referral or search the NCCAOM acupuncturist registry. Once you’ve found a provider, you can call your state licensing board to make sure they’re licensed to practice in your state.

Things you might ask before making an appointment include:

• how long the acupuncturist has been working with clients
• whether they’ve treated sinus issues with acupuncture before
• how long treatment will take
• whether they accept insurance or offer a sliding-scale payment system

If you’re worried about pain or discomfort, let them know. They may be able to address your concerns and help you feel more comfortable before your first session.

Acupuncture usually takes numerous treatments over several weeks to make a difference, so expect to be asked to come back for more treatments.

Even if the acupuncturist you choose accepts insurance, not all insurance providers cover acupuncture, so it’s a good idea to call your provider to find out if they’ll cover acupuncture treatments — and if so, how many.

If you have recurring sinus issues or are looking to try alternative treatments, acupuncture may be worth a shot. Just make sure you see a licensed acupuncturist and keep up with any prescribed sinus treatments.

Remedies for Sinus Headaches

Sinus headaches are caused by blocked sinuses, giving you pain and pressure around your sinuses, including between your eyes and above your nose. The pain can get worse when you move and the headache usually comes with other symptoms too, such as a stuffy nose or a sore throat. Experiencing a sinus headache can be tough, but there are remedies that can help you to deal with the problem. 

Dealing with the pain you’re experiencing is important, but it can also be necessary to consider treatments for the underlying cause of your sinus headaches too. An ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor might prescribe certain medications or suggest treatments that you can try at home.

Over the counter (OTC) painkillers

Taking painkillers might not tackle the cause of your sinus headache, but it will give you temporary pain relief. Over-the-counter painkillers are an easy solution because they are readily available and effective. Medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can give you the pain relief that you need. Make sure to use them according to the label so that you can ensure you’re using them safely.

Decongestants

Decongestants help by opening up your blocked sinuses to help relieve congestion. However, it’s important to be cautious when using them. If you use nasal decongestants for more than three days in a row, you could actually make your congestion worse. Oral decongestants should only be taken for a maximum of seven days. 

Decongestants are also available over the counter, so you don’t need a prescription. If you’re also taking painkillers, check the ingredients on the decongestants. Many decongestants also contain painkillers, so you need to be careful not to take too much by doubling up on medication.

Nasal steroid sprays

A nasal steroid spray is a treatment that your doctor might prescribe to you for particularly bad cases of blocked sinuses and sinus headaches. They are stronger medications that can help to reduce congestion and pain.

Antihistamines

Sometimes congestion can be caused by allergies, from seasonal allergies to environmental allergies. When this is the case, your doctor might recommend antihistamines, which can help with your sinus problems by treating the allergies.

Solutions for dry air

Dry air can irritate your sinuses, so ensuring it isn’t too dry can be helpful. You can use a humidifier or vaporizer to increase the humidity in your home. Other ways to benefit from using water include soaking a towel in warm water and holding it over your face for a few minutes. You can also use a saline solution nasal spray for the same purpose.

Salt water

Salt water can be used to flush out your sinuses and help to relieve sinus headaches. You can use a bulb syringe or a neti pot to carefully flush out your sinuses with salt water. It works by moistening and clearing out mucus, which should help to relieve the pressure and your headache. You should use distilled, sterile or boiled and then cooled water and make sure to wash out your neti pot or syringe after each use. A saline nasal spray does a similar job.

Avoid making symptoms worse

Various things can irritate your nasal passages, such as perfumes and cigarette smoke. Avoid the things that could make your symptoms worse if you want to deal with your sinus headache more quickly.

What to do when home remedies aren’t working

When you have a sinus headache, trying some treatments at home should be your first step. However, if you’ve tried a few things and nothing is helping, seeing a doctor can help you to get the right treatment and perhaps identify an underlying cause. You should also see a doctor if you have a fever, if there is pain or swelling of your face or eyes, redness around your eyes, cheeks, a severe headache, stiff neck or confusion.

After other treatments have been exhausted and your sinus problems are recurring, surgery might be suggested as an option for sinus headaches and blocked sinuses. This is something that you might discuss with your ENT to determine whether it’s the right choice for you and how it can help, as well as some of the risks that surgery can have. Before discussing surgery, it’s important to try other remedies to find out if any of them work.

If sinus headaches are a regular problem for you, Mountain Ear, Nose & Throat Associates can help. Contact us today at Sylva 828-586-7474, Franklin 828-524-5599, Murphy 828-835-1014 or New Asheville 828-458-8100 to schedule an appointment or learn more.

Pain in the head when bending over

Headache is unusually common. 90% of people have had at least one headache in their lifetime. In fact, it turns out that approximately 60% of the entire male population and 75% of the female population experienced at least one attack of headaches in the last month.

The most common cause of headache when bending over is sinusitis (also called sinusitis). With this disease, the head hurts in the eye sockets, cheekbones, cheeks, teeth may ache

Causes of pain in the head when bending over

Pain in the head when bending over is the first symptom of sinusitis. Characterized by headache – aggravated by tilting the head down, especially in the morning after waking up, localized in the superciliary region. There is difficulty in nasal breathing, more often bilateral, swelling of the skin in the area of ​​the cheek or eyelid on the affected side, if you gently press your finger on the points at the inner corner of the eye and in the middle of the cheek.

Acute sinusitis does not always begin with pain in the face. Difficulty breathing in one half of the nose may disturb, from which a purulent discharge with an unpleasant odor is released. In addition, there may be pain in the area of ​​​​the teeth of the upper jaw. For help in such cases, you should contact otorhinolaryngologist.

If you have a headache when bending over, you need to find out the true cause of the headache. One recent study found that out of 100 people who thought they had sinus headaches, almost 90% actually suffered from headaches due to 90,003 migraines.

Migraine headaches can also get worse when you lean forward and they can also be accompanied by nasal congestion . But migraine headaches are more likely to be aggravated by noise or light and may be accompanied by nausea.

Headache due to sinusitis often worries a woman during pregnancy. There are many herbs and medicines that pregnant and lactating women should not use. Check with your doctor before using herbs or supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Bent over headache diagnosis

Your doctor will ask questions to distinguish sinus headache from migraine and tension headaches. If you have recently had a cold, allergy or symptoms of sinusitis, talking about it will help your doctor make a definitive diagnosis.

The ENT specialist will usually carefully examine the nose to check for sinus congestion and discharge. The doctor also presses on different areas of your face to test them for tenderness. The doctor can use lighting sinuses Check them for inflammation, and if no light shines through them, your sinuses may be congested with mucus.

If your doctor suspects that you have chronic sinusitis you may need to be tested:

If your doctor suspects an allergy that may be causing sinusitis , you may need to test for an allergy. You may need an additional referral to a specialist known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor or otolaryngologist. This specialist can perform a nasal endoscopy using a fiber optic scope to clearly view the condition of the sinuses.

Bent over headache treatment

The best way to get rid of sinus headache that occurs when you tilt your head is to treat inflamed sinuses. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or corticosteroids.

Lifestyle changes are also needed, such as using a humidifier or irrigating the nasal passages with salt water. Some supplements and herbs can help prevent or shorten colds and flu. They can act on sinusitis in combination with antibiotics to treat infection and support the immune system. These treatments will help reduce sinus congestion and relieve headaches:

• using a humidifier.

• use of saline nasal spray.

• breathe over steam or in a steam room 2 to 4 times a day (for example, while sitting in a bathtub with a hot shower).

• treatment of allergic asthma attacks.

• other methods that may help headaches include.

• massage of painful areas of the head and neck.

• relaxation techniques.

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if he suspects you have a bacterial infection. For the treatment of acute sinusitis, you can go through course of treatment with antibiotics for 1-14 days. Treatment of chronic sinusitis may take longer, usually 3-4 weeks.

Some supplements may help prevent or treat headaches due to sinus congestion, or by reducing sinus inflammation . They can also help protect against colds. Because supplements can have side effects and interact with other medications, you should only take them under the supervision of a knowledgeable physician.

Probiotics, or “friendly” bacteria, may help if you are taking antibiotics for sinusitis. They may also reduce the chance of developing allergies. People who have weakened immune systems or who are taking drugs to suppress the immune system should ask their doctor before taking probiotics.

Sinus headache: causes, symptoms and home remedies

The paranasal sinuses are cavities or pockets in the facial bones of the skull. They are responsible for moisturizing and purifying the air, and also contribute to the strength and stability of the skull. The buildup of pressure and inflammation in the sinuses leads to a sinus headache.

Sinus headache is not usually a sign of any serious or life-threatening condition, and quite a few people experience these headaches at some point in their lives. The best way to treat this headache often depends on its cause.

Sinus headache causes

The main cause of sinus headache is inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses. Sinusitis is known as sinusitis. When the mucous membranes become inflamed and do not secrete mucus properly, pressure builds up, leading to headaches.

This type of inflammation can be caused by:

• Sinus infections
• Sensitivity
• Infection in the upper part of the teeth
• Nasal polyps
• Tumor – benign or malignant (rare)

Signs and symptoms of sinus headache

Symptoms of sinus headache include:

• Pressure and soreness behind the forehead, cheeks, or around the eyes
• Mild to severe pain that may be unilateral (on one side) or bilateral (on both sides).
• Headache may be aggravated by bending forward and is most pronounced early in the morning.
• Headache is accompanied by several symptoms, including nasal congestion, fatigue, upper teeth pain, ear congestion, mild to moderate fever, and restlessness.

Natural treatment options for sinus headaches

Here are some ways to get rid of sinus headaches.

1. Use nasal saline solution.

The use of saline nasal irrigation is an effective way to reduce nasal pressure. The saline solution thins the mucus and flushes it out of the nasal passages. Helps maintain moisture in the mucous membranes.

يف تستعمل:

• Dissolve one teaspoon of sea salt in two glasses of warm water. Use distilled or pre-boiled water.
• Fill the neti pot with a XNUMX glass of solution.
• Stand over a sink and place the nozzle tip into one nostril.
• Tilt your head to the side and let the water flow out through the other nostril.
• Repeat the process with the other nostril.
• Do this 2-3 times a week.

2. Increase your fluid intake

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids if you have sinus headaches. This will help thin the mucus in your sinuses, making it easier to drain. As soon as the body gets rid of mucus, your headache will quickly go away.

Drinking enough fluids will also help with overall hydration of the body. Check the color of your urine to determine if you are hydrated enough. Colorless urine is a sign of good hydration.

Drinking warm liquids along with water will also help. Drinking warm liquids partially or completely increases the rate of mucus discharge from the nose by inhaling water vapor through the nose. Warm chicken broth is known to speed up the flow of mucus from the nose. Warm liquid is also better than cold liquid in treating upper respiratory infections.

Drink a cup of hot herbal tea or decoction to loosen mucus in your nasal passages. Also, warm soup and lemon juice can help remove mucus.

3. Start humming

You can try humming for an hour to relieve sinus pain and headaches. It may seem strange, but tinnitus clears the sinuses and can prevent sinusitis.

A 2002 study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care reported that tinnitus increases the amount of inhaled nitric oxide, which improves sinus ventilation. Proper ventilation is vital to keeping the nasal cavity healthy and infection free.

Another study published in Medical Hypotheses in 2006 shows that vigorous humming for just one hour a day can stimulate endogenous nitric oxide production.

The next time you have a severe headache, say a happy note to relieve the pain.

4. Use peppermint oil

Peppermint oil contains menthol, which can help relieve sinus congestion. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can reduce the discomfort of sinus headaches.

يف تستعمل:

• Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to hot water and inhale the steam. Repeat the procedure several times until you feel complete relief.
• Dilute a few drops of peppermint oil with some carrier oils such as almond oil and jojoba oil. Gently rub into the affected areas – around the nose, forehead, temples and cheeks.
• Alternatively, for best results, massage your sinus area after applying diluted peppermint oil. It is believed that massaging the sinus area can reduce inflammation. Massage will help stimulate clogged sinuses so they can drain properly, reducing discomfort.
• Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to
• tablespoons of warm olive oil.
• Apply oil to forehead and nose.
• Use your index finger and thumb to gently apply pressure to the sinus area (forehead, bridge of the nose and cheekbones).
• Continue massaging for 10 minutes.
• Repeat 2-3 times daily until symptoms improve.

Although there are no scientific studies to prove the following remedies are effective in relieving sinus headaches, many users have found the following lifestyle changes along with medication and rest to be very helpful as they help relieve sinus congestion.

5. Breathe in the steam

Steam is an effective home remedy for sinus headaches caused by chronic sinusitis. Inhaling the steam will soothe the mucous membranes and help relieve nasal congestion. This will relieve pressure in the sinuses and reduce headaches.

يف تستعمل:

• Boil some water in a pot.
• Add a few drops of essential oil (optional).
• Cover your head with a towel and lean forward over a bowl or pot of hot water.
• Inhale the steam as many times as possible.
• Repeat this treatment every two hours as needed for relief.
• Steam bath will give similar benefits.

Warning: Avoid steam inhalation for children as it has been shown to have adverse effects.

6. Apply moisturizer.

You need to breathe moist air to get rid of a sinus headache. Dry air can further irritate inflamed nasal passages, while moist air thins the mucus and reduces the blockage. This will ease the pain.

The best way to humidify the air is to use a humidifier.

يف تستعمل:

• Buy a humidifier and use it in your bedroom while you sleep as most people experience increased sinus pressure at night.
• Alternatively, placing a bowl of hot water on the bedroom floor can increase the humidity. Make sure you put it in a safe place where you won’t accidentally trip or step on it.

Prevent sinus headaches

Sinus headaches can be prevented by taking the following steps:

• Practice good hygiene and wash your hands to prevent colds and upper respiratory infections.
• Avoid known allergens that cause sinus or nasal congestion. By avoiding triggers, you can not only get rid of headaches faster, but also prevent problems in the future.
• Avoid potential irritants: chewing, cigarette smoking, smoky rooms, strong perfumes, etc.
• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, as this can lead to swelling of the sinuses and tissues.
• Stay away from polluted air and stay away from dusty areas.
• Avoid excessive use of electronic devices and limit sun exposure. Glare from gadget screens and sunlight can exacerbate sinus pain.

Additional Tips for Treating and Preventing Sinus Headaches

• Elevate your head with extra pillows when you sleep.
• Observe sleep patterns and eat at set times. Try to control the stress in your life.
• Regular aerobic exercise helps reduce stress and may help prevent headaches.
• Relax and get plenty of rest.
• Eat foods that boost your immune system: Lemons, oranges, bell peppers, kiwi, pineapple, broccoli, strawberries, blueberries, and pomegranates are great choices.
• Keep your home free of dust mites and other allergens.

Risk factors associated with sinus headache

Sinus headache can affect anyone, but some people experience it more often. Common risk factors include:

• Previous history of migraine or headaches (you or someone in your family)
• Hormonal changes associated with headaches

When will you see a doctor?

Because sinus headaches can be easily confused with migraine or tension headaches, it is recommended that you see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Migraines are usually associated with nausea.

Treating and preventing sinus headaches is easy. The main goal of treating sinus headache is twofold. First, steps must be taken to reduce inflammation in the sinuses and help them drain. Second, steps are taken to relieve discomfort and pain while treating the underlying problem.

Expert Answers (Q&A)

How long does sinus headache last?

The duration of sinus headache depends on whether it is acute or chronic. It usually takes 6 to 8 weeks for it to disappear or decrease in severity.

What is the fastest way to relieve sinus pressure?

The fastest way to relieve pressure in the face and forehead is painkillers, anti-inflammatory tablets, decongestants, nasal sprays and drops. It is very important to visit an otolaryngologist to assess the condition of your sinuses before taking any other course of treatment or starting antibiotic treatment.

Can nasal decongestants help relieve sinus headaches?

Yes, decongestants are very important for fighting nasal mucosa, increasing airflow and reducing sinus pressure.

How do you know if you have a migraine or sinus headache?

It is very easy to tell if a headache is caused by a migraine or a sinus infection. The cause of a migraine is universal, associated with nausea or vomiting, intolerance to light, and is usually associated with nervous tension.

Sinus headache is characterized by pressure in the face and head with flu-like symptoms and drooping of the front or back of the nose or mucous membranes with toothache or fever in some cases.