How to Tell the Difference Between Sinus Headaches and Migraines

Can you spot the difference between a migraine and a sinus headache? Both bring about similar symptoms, but getting the best treatment comes down to an accurate diagnosis. Be that as it may, the American Migraine Foundation reports that a self-diagnosed sinus headache is almost always, in reality, a migraine in disguise.

On the hunt for migraine relief in Montgomery or Prattville? You first need to understand what you’re battling. Here’s how to tell the difference between a sinus headache and migraine.

Migraine Symptoms

Migraines are more than simply bad headaches. It’s actually considered a neurological disease that affects a staggering 39 million people in the U.S. Symptoms vary, but Healthline identifies these common ones:

• Head pain (pain in the temples or behind one ear or eye are linked to migraines)
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Light and/or sound sensitivity
• Seeing spots/vision disruptions

Migraines generally fall into one of two camps: with aura or without aura. In this scenario, the word “aura” points to subtle warning signs that usually precede a migraine. According to the National Headache Foundation, common auras include:

• Visual symptoms (seeing flashing lights or zigzag lines, experiencing blind spots, seeing distorted figures, etc.)
• Tingling in one arm or leg

Sinus Headache Symptoms

Sinus headaches are tricky because the symptoms can sometimes mimic the ones associated with migraines. The most distinctive part of a sinus headache is that it happens alongside a sinus infection, so there are some specific things to look out for. According to WebMD, the biggest red flags are:

• Fever
• A sense of fullness in the ears
• Facial swelling
• A runny nose

These types of headaches are actually caused by sinus blockage, so getting to the bottom of the problem is altogether different than treating a migraine. Antibiotics, for example, may be prescribed—an approach you don’t see when tackling chronic migraines. Treating a sinus headache may also involve antihistamines or decongestants. When it comes to treating migraines, over-the-counter and prescription pain medications are often the go-to, but the right doctor can help pinpoint the most accurate diagnosis, which is what ultimately drives effective treatment.

Migraines are painful, disruptive attacks that can knock you off your feet pretty quickly. And in some cases, they may be a warning sign of something more serious. Some migraines, for instance, may actually be a symptom of glaucoma or even a brain tumor. This is why creating an individualized treatment plan with an experienced pain management specialist is so vital.

Finding migraine relief in Prattville and Montgomery is easier than you think. Contact Health Star Clinic today to schedule an appointment!