How are sinus-related headaches treated?
The treatment of sinusitis begins with a careful history and detailed physical examination. A review of imaging studies of the head or neck (x-rays, CT or MRI scans) may be required to make an accurate diagnosis. Direct visualization of the tissues by inserting a scope device up the nasal passages may also be necessary. Upon determining that a headache’s origin is a sinus infection, short-term antibiotics (typically less than 2 weeks) and decongestants (several days only) may be prescribed. Allergic sinusitis may respond to simple antihistamine and steroid-based nasal sprays. A chronic sinus infection may require weeks of therapy, various antibiotic regimens, or the judicious use of supportive steroid preparations. Sometimes nasal surgery is indicated to correct underlying anatomical factors. Treatment failure may be attributed to poor compliance, e.g., skipping or prematurely stopping antibiotics or steroid nasal sprays, overusing analgesics or decongestants, and/or inappropriate self
