Neither fever, nor blocked nose, nor obvious signs … However, these headaches that still coincide with the return of spring might not be a simple coincidence. Some specialists evoke an insidious trigger factor, often confused with other more classic disorders. What you feel is perhaps a sign of an underestimated phenomenon.
How can an allergy cause headache?
The headache or headache, in everyday language, is a symptom that we do not spontaneously associate with allergies. However, as Dr. Alan Workman specifies from the Harvard Medical School in the US Huffpost, a simple headache can sometimes be caused by allergens like pollen, mites or molds. Pain comes most often from inflammation of sinuses.
“The allergens lead to congestion and swelling of the nasal mucous membranes, which causes pressure in the sinuses, especially at the level of the forehead, cheeks or around the eyes. It is a sinus headache” explains Dr. Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of True Medical.
A phenomenon that can lead to diagnostic errors: “Many patients who think they are suffering from a sinus infection actually only have an inflammation linked to an allergy“Esides Dr. Workman.
Another phenomenon in play: during the allergic reaction, the release of histamine dilates blood vessels and can trigger a vascular headache, even a migraine, by irritating nerve endings and by increasing the sensitivity to pain.
Finally, some food triggers such as sulfites or nocturnal allergies linked to mites can affect the quality of sleep and promote tension headaches in the morning.
What are the signs to recognize an allergic headache?
To make the difference, Dr Catherine Monteleone, interviewed in the same article, recommends observing the seasonality of the headache. “”If you suffer especially in spring or fall, it is a safe bet that allergies are involved “ she notes.
The type of pain can also guide the diagnosis. Dr. Kierzek describes her as “a feeling of pressure, located in the face, often around the eyes, the forehead or the cheeks“. Unlike migraines, these headaches are generally not accompanied by nausea or light sensitivity.
The other clues to be monitored are:
- Pain accentuated by the elongated position or the head movements;
- The presence of even slight nasal congestion;
- A worsening during exposure to dust, animal hair or outside air.
What treatments to relieve allergic headaches?
Experts recommend treating allergies with different approaches, including taking oral antihistamines to block the allergic reaction. Corticosteroid -based nasal sprays will be used to reduce local inflammation. Regular lavages with physiological serum will make it possible to clear the sinuses.
Do not forget also the simple gestures to adopt during pollens periods, as to close your windows, do not dry your laundry outside and wash your hair daily.
Finally, if over -the -counter treatments have no effect or if your headache becomes frequent, it’s time to talk to a professional. “”An oto-rhino-laryngologist or an allergist can orient you and test to confirm the allergic origin“Concludes Dr. Workman.