Sinus Headache Treatment, Sustainable Relief

Experiencing a headache that feels like your whole face is under pressure? You may be dealing with a sinus headache. They’re typically caused by sinusitis (sinus inflammation or infection), which can develop after a cold, allergies, or exposure to environmental irritants. 

If you have nasal congestion, a history of sinus issues, or tenderness that worsens with movement, it might be time to look into sinus headache treatment.

We understand how frustrating and debilitating sinus headaches are

What is a Sinus Headache?

Sinus headaches are usually linked to a sinus infection. When the sinus cavities in your face become blocked or inflamed, pressure can build and create a dull, throbbing pain. You might feel heavy, tender or achy around your forehead, nose, cheeks or eyes. Unlike migraines, the pain usually affects both sides of your face and worsens when bending forward or lying down.

Safe & Fast

All techniques involve targeted, slow and sustained pressure. There is NO manipulation (cracking) of the spine.

Effective

80% of people assessed have treatable and relevant dysfunction. Most of these will see significant changes in the first two weeks.

100% Natural

No drugs, needles, toxic chemicals or side-effects. Just correcting a previously misunderstood fault in biomechanics.

Older man holding neck in pain – chronic neck tension and cervicogenic headaches treated at Bangalow Headache and Migraine Clinic

What are the Symptoms of Sinus Headaches?

Signs of sinus headaches include a dull, deep ache in the face, forehead, and bridge of your nose, congestion or a blocked nose, and mucus buildup. Many patients also experience pain that worsens with movement, facial tenderness or swelling, and ear fullness or pressure. Some people also experience fatigue, mild fever, or sensitivity to temperature changes.

Sinus Headache Causes

The most common causes include viral infections (like colds), bacterial sinus infections, seasonal allergies, or anything that blocks normal sinus drainage, such as nasal polyps or a deviated septum. Cold weather or changes in air pressure can also lead to sinus headaches. These issues trap mucus inside your sinuses, causing buildup and increased pressure, resulting in inflammation and pain that spreads to other parts of your face.

Man at computer experiencing headache– workplace-related migraines supported at Bangalow Headache and Migraine Clinic
Stressed woman at desk with head in hands – work-related tension and migraine support at Bangalow Headache and Migraine Clinic

Sinus Headache Triggers

Understanding what can set off a sinus headache can help reduce flare-ups and ensure proper treatment for sinus headaches. Some people are more likely to experience sinus headaches due to lifestyle, environment, or immune system health, but common triggers include:

  • Changes in weather or air pressure
  • Flying or changes in altitude
  • Hay fever, seasonal or dust allergies
  • Smoking or exposure to airborne irritants
  • Colds and flu
  • Pressure changes when swimming or diving
  • Chlorine in pools
  • Overuse of nasal decongestants

Sinus Headaches Diagnosis

Your initial appointment at our sinus headache clinic usually begins with a clinical examination and a review of your symptoms and medical history. In some cases, CT scans or X-rays may be used to confirm sinus inflammation or blockages.

Because sinus headaches share symptoms with migraines and tension headaches, accurate diagnosis is important. That’s why it’s vital to seek professional care from a trained headache physiotherapist who understands the subtle differences between headache types.

Man drinking water after exercise – staying hydrated to prevent headaches and migraines naturally, supported by Bangalow Headache and Migraine Clinic
Woman holding neck in pain after exercise – neck tension linked to headaches treated at Bangalow Headache and Migraine Clinic

Sinus Headache Treatment

Treating a sinus headache starts by addressing its root cause. In instances where the pain is recurring and related to an overly sensitised brainstem, we offer a hands-on, drug-free approach. Using slow, sustained pressure, we address any dysfunction in the upper neck, providing long-lasting relief and self-management.

For bacterial infections, your GP may recommend antibiotics, while antihistamines and nasal sprays can help with allergy-based headaches. Other treatment options for sinus headaches may include decongestants to relieve nasal pressure, saline nasal rinses to help mucus drain, steam inhalation or warm compresses for relief.

Effective & Safe: Our Treatment for Sinus Headaches

If you’ve tried over-the-counter medications without real change, we can help.

We use targeted methods to address sinus-related head pain, particularly when it’s part of a broader pattern involving tension, posture, or neck dysfunction. Our team offers specialised treatment for sinus headaches and takes the time to assess and treat your pain based on the Watson Headache® Approach and other tailored physiotherapy techniques. We offer strategies to manage sinus pressure naturally, restore balance, and support your long-term health.

Young woman with headache while studying at home – tension and concentration-related migraines treated at Bangalow Headache and Migraine Clinic

Why Choose Our Sinus Headache Clinic

Our team brings decades of clinical experience and advanced training, proven headache management strategies, and genuine, personalised care to every appointment. With a deep understanding of biomechanics and neurology, you’ll work with a physiotherapist who provides clear communication and thorough assessments.

No more feeling blocked up, foggy, or constantly reaching for medication – see measurable progress and feel the difference at our sinus headache clinic.

If you’re dealing with overlapping conditions, we can help with treatment for cervicogenic headache, dizziness, jaw issues and more. From cluster headache management to physiotherapy treatment for tension headaches, gain in-depth insights and expert care.

We also treat...

Our experts treat a number of headache and jaw pain issues, and have a high level of knowledge and experience with any pain you may be suffering from.

Call us today to see

how we can help you

Dizziness

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Menstrual Headache

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Cluster Headache

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Tension Headache

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Migraine Headache

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Jaw Pain & Issues

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General Headache

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Sinus Headache Treatment FAQs

A sinus headache typically causes a dull, throbbing pain or pressure in your forehead, cheekbones, around the eyes, or the bridge of your nose, and often comes with nasal symptoms. It may worsen when you bend forward or move your head quickly. Many people also feel congested, fatigued, or experience facial tenderness.

Sinus headaches usually last as long as the underlying sinus infection, around a week. If symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen over time, it could suggest a bacterial infection or even a different type of headache, like a migraine. Timely and accurate treatment for sinus headache and its underlying cause is key to lasting relief.

If your headache lasts over a week, keeps returning, or comes with fever, swelling, or vision changes, it’s time to seek medical advice. Persistent symptoms may point to a bacterial infection or something other than sinus-related pain. Get a proper diagnosis at our sinus headache clinic, and we’ll guide you to the right treatment and prevent discomfort.

Your Path to Relief Starts Here

Don’t let the pain, fogginess, and fatigue impact your day-to-day any longer and seek professional sinus headache treatment today. Get in touch today with our Bangalow Headache Clinic and we’ll help you find a solution so you can feel clearer, lighter, and breathe easier. 

Book your appointment today.

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