The sinuses are hollow cavities found under the cheekbones, behind the nose and around the eyes. They are lined with a layer of mucus designed to moisten, warm and filter air as it enters your nose on its way to your lungs. When these are clogged, the pressure that builds up can lead to persistent pain.
However, due to the similarity in location, migraines are often misdiagnosed as sinus headaches. True sinus headaches are actually quite rare and must be accompanied by the following symptoms:
• Headache in the front of the head with pain in at least one of these areas: ears, face, or teeth
• Headache coupled with simultaneous rhinosinusitis symptoms
• Headache and facial pain that diminishes within seven days of rhinosinusitis symptoms
An accurate diagnosis is key to a proper treatment plan.