Major Headaches

[allie4444]

Hi everyone,

Lately I've been having some pretty major headaches.  I'm a smoker, trying to quit, I don't typically have this kind of pain.  My nose hurts when I blow it, and also when I breathe in.  It feels like sinus pressure, that could be relieved if a hole was drilled into my skull.  Any suggestions on how to rid this??

Thanks.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
Thank you for the update. If there was history of trauma to the head or nose, this could be related to the pain you are experiencing. It is best that you have this checked by an ENT doctor for proper evaluation. Imaging studies like CT scan may be indicated to rule out underlying medical conditions. Take care and do keep us posted.

[allie4444]

could this be something a netti-pot could help as well?

[allie4444]

thanks to you all for the responses. Mothers day weekend, I was playing with my nephew and he accidently slammed into my nose with all of his eleven year old force. I had mild pain that day, and in days following, the nose was quite sensitive. Would this possibly be related as well? Or might it be the sudden decrease in smoking. Usually, some advil and a ten minute nap lessen the intense pain. But it is severe, and highly uncomfortable. Making most minimual tasks irritating. Thanks everyone!

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? Sinus headaches usually present with gnawing pain over nasal area, often increasing in severity throughout day. This can be caused by acute infection, nasal polyps, anatomical deformities, such as a deviated septum, that block the sinus ducts.  Decongestants may help provide relief. However, have this evaluated further for proper management. Antibiotics may be indicated. Take care and regards.

[dame_wilbur]

Yeah, withdrawal from the nicotine can definitely can cause headaches. However, as Selma suggested, I'd recommend seeing an ENT to see if you have a sinus infection, and if so, get treatment for it.

You can try getting some Mucinex, which is just an expectorant, and see if that helps with your sinus pressure.

Good luck and keep us posted,

~Dame

[selmaS]

Hi, outside of the obvious, to quit smoking....u may want to see an ENT dr to see if u have a sinus infection.....

Smoking as u may already know causes ur arteries and veins to constrict....in an area where u r having swelling due to infection..u have the 2 fighting each other.

Try to quit, and  try some foods that have anti inflammatory properties to help with the issue.

Good luck
"selma"