Differential Diagnosis for Sinus Headache
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Migraine: This is often the most common cause of headaches that are mistaken for sinus headaches. Migraines can present with pain that is perceived as originating from the sinuses, especially if they involve the trigeminal nerve, which has branches that innervate the face and sinuses.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tension Headache: These are common and can sometimes be confused with sinus headaches due to the location of the pain, which can be in the forehead, neck, and scalp.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses can cause pain that is typically localized to the area of the affected sinus, accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal congestion, discharge, and facial pressure.
- Cluster Headache: Although less common, cluster headaches can cause severe pain around one eye and are often accompanied by nasal congestion or rhinorrhea on the same side, which might be mistaken for a sinus headache.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Temporal Arteritis (Giant Cell Arteritis): This condition can cause headache, jaw claudication, and visual disturbances. It's crucial to diagnose early to prevent complications like blindness.
- Cervicogenic Headache: Originating from the cervical spine, these headaches can refer pain to the face and be mistaken for sinus headaches. Identifying and treating the cervical cause is essential.
- Intracranial Hemorrhage or Mass: Although rare, any new or severe headache could potentially be a sign of a serious intracranial condition. Immediate medical attention is necessary if there are red flag symptoms like sudden onset, worsening over time, or accompanied by fever, confusion, or neurological deficits.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: Characterized by sudden, severe, shock-like pain around the eyes, lips, or nose, typically on one side of the face, which could be mistaken for a severe sinus headache.
- Sphenoid Sinusitis: Infection or inflammation of the sphenoid sinus, located near the base of the skull, can cause a deep, midline headache and is a rare but serious condition due to its proximity to critical structures.
- Nasal or Sinus Tumors: Although rare, tumors in the nasal passages or sinuses can cause facial pain and pressure that might be confused with sinus headaches.