A chronic sinus headache is the result of chronic sinusitis (sinus infection). A chronic sinus infection is defined by the Mayo Clinic as a sinus infection lasting more than eight weeks or is reoccurring. Chronic sinus headaches can impair your quality of life and the ability to perform your daily tasks. Common symptoms of a chronic sinus headache are pain throughout the head, pressure and fever. Seek medical advice if you do not find relief from over-the-counter drugs or your condition lasts for more than seven days. Talk to your doctor before taking any medication.
Pain
Like other types of headaches, pain is the most common symptom of chronic sinus headaches. Chronic sinus headaches can cause pain and tenderness in the eyes, ears, back of the neck, forehead and upper teeth due to excessive pressure. Often, the pain caused by chronic sinus disease is worse in morning and progressively improves throughout the day. The pain may worsen if you experience extreme temperature changes (going from a hot day into air condition) or air pressure changes when you fly or travel to a different elevation. Chronic sinus headache pain may be treated with OTC anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as aspirin or ibuprofen. If the pain is extreme, to the point where you are unable to function or stand up, seek medical attention immediately because this may be a sign of a more severe condition.
Pressure
Pressure may be felt in the ears, behind the eyes and in the top of your mouth. Pressure in the ears may feel like your ears are clogged and may produce ringing in your ears. Your eyes may be sensitive to touch and aching throughout the day as a result of pressure behind the eyeball. Pressure on the eyes may make you feel sleepy as well. The pressure placed on the roof of the mouth may result in a toothache. It may be difficult to decipher between a sinus pressure toothache and a cavity. See your dentist for proper evaluation.
Fever
Chronic sinus headaches commonly result in a fever because they are typically the result of chronic sinus infections. The body will rise its temperature to attempt to kill the virus or bacteria causing the infection. It is common to have a low-grade fever (below 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit) with a sinus infection. The Mayo Clinic recommends seeking medical attention if your fever remains above 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
