More than one in five people are affected by allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, according to MayoClinic.com. Hay fever is a condition with cold-like symptoms that are caused by indoor and outdoor allergens, such as dust, pollen, mold and animal dander. Allergic rhinitis directly affects the sinuses, causing sinus pressure that results in headaches felt throughout the head. Sinus headaches are a common symptom of allergic rhinitis and can be effectively treated, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center. Talk with a doctor before taking any medication.
Causes
Allergic rhinitis is caused by allergens, according to MedlinePlus. When an allergen enters the body, the immune system overreacts to it by attempting to ward it off by releasing histamine. Histamine leads to irritation in the sinus cavities, the eyes and throat. The irritated sinuses become inflamed and swell, producing mucus and creating pressure throughout the head. The pressure causes pain to be felt in the eyes, ears and forehead.
Symptoms
Allergic rhinitis headaches are a dull, throbbing pain felt in the center of the head, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center. The pressure from the sinuses can cause discomfort and facial sensitivity behind the cheekbones, the eyes, ears, forehead, back of the neck and some teeth. The pain may get worse if someone stands up quickly or bends over suddenly. Sinus headaches typically get better throughout the day and are the worse after sleeping through the night.
Medical Treatment
Treating headaches that result from hay fever begins with addressing the allergic reaction, according to MayoClinic.com. Avoiding allergens is the best treatment for allergic rhinitis. Antihistamines are used to prevent the body from releasing histamine, causing a reduction in allergy symptoms. Pain relievers are used to address the pain caused by sinus pressure headaches. Decongestants work by reducing inflammation in the nasal cavity. A doctor may recommend the use of immunotherapy to treat severe cases of hay fever.
Home Treatment
The University of Maryland's Medical Center states that various home treatments can be used to treat hay fever and sinus headaches. Use saline sinus washes and sprays, run a humidifier and inhale steam two to four times daily to help moisten and cleanse the sinuses.
Complications
Hay fever with headaches may be a sign of a complication, such as a sinus, eye or brain infection. Some alarming signs to be aware of are a swollen forehead, severe pain that restricts normal functionality and vision distortion, according to MayoClnic.com. You should see a doctor if medications do not improve the symptoms.
