It’s common to experience a headache caused by blocked sinuses during an allergy attack. But for some, it’s not just a headache; it’s a migraine. Migraines and headaches are often confused, but migraines are medical conditions rather than a symptom or side effect like a headache is. For some people, migraines can be triggered by allergies.
What Is the Link Between Allergies and Migraines?
Experts are still not sure exactly how allergies cause migraines, but they do know that the nervous system, immune system and endocrine system are likely involved.
For example, if you get migraines, this is an indicator that you have a sensitive nervous system, or that your body tends to overreact to changes in your environment. Then, when you’re exposed to allergens, it triggers your immune system to release histamine, resulting in inflammation throughout the body. This can set the stage for a migraine.
Because of this, many people who are prone to migraine headaches have more severe or more frequent migraines during allergy season.
What Are the Symptoms of a Migraine Triggered by Allergies?
If you have a migraine triggered by allergies, you may experience:
- Pain in the sinuses (in the forehead, near the eyes & under the cheeks).
- Throbbing or stabbing headache (often one-sided).
- Nausea.
- Sensitivity to light and noise.
- Increased symptoms during spring, summer or fall.
How Are Allergy-Related Migraines Prevented?
The best way to prevent a migraine caused by allergies is to get your allergies under control. Allergy treatments include:
- Antihistamines. These drugs temporarily stop your body from producing histamine, which should ease allergy symptoms, but won’t relieve a migraine after it starts. You can take antihistamines daily to prevent allergy attacks.
- Decongestants. These can be found over-the-counter to relieve stuffy nose and sinus pressure.
- Immunotherapy. This long-term solution introduces your body to small amounts of allergens so that it can build up a tolerance.
Are you ready to live your best life and not have to worry about an allergy attack or migraine when spending time at Brittlebank Park for a socially-distanced meet-up? For more information about how to manage your allergies or to schedule an appointment with an expert allergist, call Charleston ENT & Allergy today.