Headaches are one of the most common health complaints, and many people assume facial pain or pressure must be caused by their sinuses. In reality, what people call a “sinus headache” is often a migraine. Understanding the differences between these two conditions is key to getting the right treatment and avoiding long-term discomfort.

Why the confusion happens

Migraines and sinus problems share overlapping symptoms such as:

  • Pain across the forehead, cheeks, or around the eyes
  • Blocked or runny nose
  • Pressure that worsens when bending forward
  • Tiredness or difficulty concentrating

Because of these similarities, many people seek treatment for sinus issues when the underlying problem is actually neurological.

What makes it a migraine

Migraines are a type of neurological headache. They may last anywhere from several hours to three days and are often accompanied by other symptoms such as:

  • Sensitivity to light and sound
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Visual disturbances (aura)
  • Throbbing or pulsating pain
  • Migraines may be triggered by stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, hormonal changes, or certain foods.

What makes it sinus-related

True sinus headaches are caused by sinusitis, an infection or inflammation of the sinuses. They usually come with:

  • Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
  • Fever or recent cold
  • Facial pain that feels worse in the morning or when leaning forward
  • A reduced sense of smell
  • Unlike migraines, sinus headaches usually improve once the infection or inflammation is treated.

Why it matters

Treating sinus headaches with antibiotics when the problem is actually migraine will not provide relief. Likewise, relying only on migraine medication when a sinus infection is present can delay proper care.

When to see an ENT specialist in London

If you have frequent facial pain, pressure, or headaches that don’t respond to standard medication, it is worth seeing an ENT specialist. At London ENT, we use nasal endoscopy and imaging to confirm whether your symptoms are linked to sinus disease or another cause such as migraine. This ensures you receive the right treatment, whether that is medical therapy for sinusitis, referral for migraine management, or combined care.

FAQs about sinus and migraine headaches

Can allergies trigger sinus headaches?
Yes, allergies can inflame the nasal lining and trigger sinus pain, but this is not the same as a migraine.

Why does my headache get worse when I bend forward?
Both sinus pressure and migraine can worsen in this position, due to blood flowing to the front part of the head which can intensify the feeling of pressure that is already present. This is why diagnosis can be tricky without specialist input.

Can sinus surgery help with headaches?
If the pain is caused by chronic sinusitis or a structural blockage, surgery may relieve symptoms. It will not help with migraines.

What if I have both migraine and sinus problems?
It is possible and indeed quite common to have both conditions at the same time. In many cases, an attack of migraine can be triggered if your sinuses are congested, further adding to the challenges in making the diagnosis. In these cases, an ENT specialist can treat sinus issues, while a neurologist can manage migraine triggers.

Get clarity with London ENT

If you are unsure whether your headaches are caused by migraine or sinus disease, London ENT can help. Call us on 0203 865 7225 to arrange an appointment with one of our sinus specialists in London.