Sinus Pain vs. Tension Headaches: How to Tell Them Apart

Headaches are a common complaint, but not all headaches are the same. Two types that are often confused are sinus headaches and tension headaches. While they can share similar symptoms, understanding their differences is crucial for finding effective relief.

What is Sinus Pain?

Sinus headaches occur due to inflammation or congestion in the sinus cavities. This often happens when a person has a sinus infection, allergies, or a cold. Common symptoms of sinus headaches include:

• Pain and pressure around the forehead, cheeks, and eyes

• Worsening discomfort when bending forward or lying down

• Nasal congestion or a runny nose

• A feeling of fullness in the ears

• Fatigue or a low-grade fever (in cases of infection)
   

Sinus headaches result from the buildup of pressure in the sinus cavities, leading to discomfort that can persist until the congestion is relieved.
 

What Are Tension Headaches?

Tension headaches are often caused by stress, poor posture, or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. They are the most common type of headache and typically present with:

• A dull, aching pain that wraps around the head

• Tightness or pressure across the forehead or the back of the head

• Tenderness in the scalp, neck, or shoulders

• No nasal congestion or fever
   

Unlike sinus headaches, tension headaches do not worsen with movement, and they are not linked to sinus infections or allergies.
 

How Chiropractic Adjustments Can Help

Chiropractic care provides a drug-free and holistic approach to managing both sinus and tension headaches. By addressing underlying causes rather than just symptoms, chiropractic adjustments offer a natural way to find relief.
 

One of the primary benefits of chiropractic care is its ability to relieve tension and muscle tightness. Many tension headaches stem from stress and poor posture, leading to stiffness in the neck and upper back. Chiropractic adjustments help alleviate this tension, reducing the frequency and severity of headaches.

For those suffering from sinus headaches, chiropractic care can improve sinus drainage. Adjustments targeting the upper cervical spine can promote better sinus function, reducing pressure and inflammation that contribute to sinus pain. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who frequently experience sinus congestion or infections.
 

Chiropractic adjustments also restore proper spinal alignment. Misalignments in the spine, particularly in the neck, can contribute to chronic headaches. By correcting these issues, chiropractic care helps improve overall nervous system function, which can reduce headache triggers.
 

Additionally, chiropractic care plays a role in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. By relieving tension throughout the body, adjustments can prevent tension headaches from developing and provide a sense of overall well-being. This holistic approach makes chiropractic care an effective solution for those seeking long-term relief from headaches.
 

Find Relief Naturally

If you’re struggling with headaches and looking for a natural solution, chiropractic care may be the answer. By addressing the root cause of your pain, chiropractic adjustments can help you experience long-term relief without relying on medications.

Schedule an appointment with 22 Health to find out how chiropractic care can help you overcome headaches and improve your overall health. Contact our office in Altamonte Springs, Florida, by calling (407) 951-8921 to book an appointment today.