What Are the Differences Between Sinus Headaches and Migraines?

Migraines and sinus headaches are often mistaken for each other. While migraines are much more common than sinus headaches are, sinus headaches become more of a problem during the fall and winter months.

Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team provides helpful information on both types of headaches below, so keep reading!

What Are Sinus Headaches?

Sinus headaches are a common symptom of sinusitis, or a sinus infection. As opposed to a migraine, a sinus headache is a sign of an infection.

When a sinus infection occurs, the sinuses become clogged with fluid, which cause pressure and pain in the cheekbones and the bridge of the nose. This pain usually gets stronger when you move your head suddenly. Sinus headaches are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as a runny nose, fever or the feeling of fullness in your ears.

Common Sinus Headache Symptoms

  • Fever
  • Stuffy nose
  • Thick, colored mucus discharge from the nose
  • Feeling of fullness in the ears
  • Swollen or puffy face

What Are Migraines?

Migraines are headaches that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, usually on one side of the head. They’re often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. In general, migraines are much more severe than sinus headaches, as some migraines can last for days.

While both types of headaches are painful, a differentiating factor between sinus headaches and migraines is mucus color. With a migraine, nasal discharge is clear, while a sinus headache caused by a sinus infection is accompanied by thick, discolored nasal mucus.

Other Migraine Symptoms

  • Intense throbbing or dull aching pain on one side of your head or both sides
  • Pain that worsens with physical activity
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Changes in how you see, including blurred vision or blind spots
  • Being bothered by light, noise or odors
  • Feeling tired and/or confused
  • Stopped-up nose

Have further questions about migraines and sinus headaches? Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team is here to provide the answers you need, so don’t hesitate to reach out today!