Sinus headaches occur as a result of fluid buildup in the sinus cavities of the face and head. The excess fluid exerts pressure on nerve endings, causing pain. Sinus cavities are located in the forehead and nose area of the face. Because of their location, it is not unusual to feel the pain of sinus headaches not only in the forehead, but also under the eyes. The pain can sometimes radiate down to the teeth, which is why what is thought to be toothaches are actually sinus headaches.
One way to determine if tooth pain is caused by dental problems or sinus headaches is to take a clean metal spoon or fork and gently tap the tooth that seems to be affected. If pain is actually felt in the tooth upon tapping it, then it is more likely to be a toothache. If there is no reaction in the tooth, then sinus headaches are a possibility.
Sinus headaches can actually trigger other types of headaches, especially in people who are prone to suffer with them. Sinus headaches can trigger a migraine headache attack, or can cause someone who suffers from cluster headaches (another form of migraine headaches) to experience an episode of these.
Fri, Mar 5, 2010
Allergies, Headaches, Health