Headaches from Allergies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Allergies are notorious for causing a range of uncomfortable symptoms. From sneezing and runny noses to watery eyes and itchy skin, they can make even a normal day feel like a challenge.

But what if you’ve been experiencing headaches alongside these typical allergy symptoms? You might find yourself wondering: Can allergies cause headaches, too?
In this article, we’ll discuss how allergies can trigger headaches. You'll learn symptoms that set allergy-related headaches apart and the treatments for relief.

Can Allergies Cause Headaches?

Yes, allergies can cause headaches, particularly "sinus headaches." They occur due to inflammation and pressure buildup in the sinus cavities from allergic reactions. Pain and discomfort can be felt in the sinus areas of the face, which includes the cheeks and forehead [*].

When you are exposed to allergens like pollen, your immune system responds by releasing histamine. This leads to inflammation in the sinus tissues. The swelling that occurs restricts normal sinus drainage, causing congestion and increased pressure. Over time, this buildup creates the hallmark symptoms of sinus headaches.

Can Allergies Cause Migraines?

Yes, allergies can sometimes cause migraines, especially if you already have them. One study showed that 37% of people with allergies had migraines, compared to only 5% of people without allergies [*].

Allergy symptoms like stuffy nose, swelling, and inflammation can stimulate the trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve transmits pain signals from the face, head, and neck to the brain. This can trigger headache pain and make you feel worse.

Allergy Headache Symptoms

Allergy headaches can feel like a dull, pressure-like pain that is centered around the forehead, eyes, and cheeks. They are  usually accompanied by other symptoms including:

• Nasal congestion or a runny nose
  
• Watery or itchy eyes
  
• Sinus pressure or facial tenderness
  
• Sneezing or coughing
  
• Post-nasal drip
  
• Fatigue
  

If allergies trigger your migraines, you may find they occur more often in spring, summer, and fall when pollen is abundant.

Allergy Headache Triggers

Allergy headaches can be triggered by a variety of factors, including exposure to allergens, weather changes, environmental irritants, and certain foods and drinks.

Allergens: 

• Pollen (especially during specific seasons when pollen counts are high)
  
• Dust mites
  
• Mold spores
  
• Pet dander

Weather changes:

• Sudden shifts in temperature
  
• High humidity
  
• High barometric pressure

Environmental irritants:

• Strong perfumes
  
• Cleaning products
  
• Air pollution
  
• Smoke

Foods and drinks:

• Dairy
  
• Gluten
  
• Alcohol
  
• Caffeine (when consumed in excess or withdrawn suddenly)
  

How to Treat Allergy Headaches

Allergy headaches can be treated with medicines, home remedies, and by avoiding allergens that trigger your symptoms. Here’s a closer look at your options:

Medications

• Antihistamines: These help block allergic reactions and relieve sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.
  
• Decongestants: These help clear a stuffy nose and reduce sinus pressure, which can relieve headache pain.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage headache discomfort.
  
• Nasal sprays: Saline sprays rinse out mucus, while steroid sprays reduce swelling in the sinuses. For better relief, combination sprays like Allermi are a great option. They include ingredients like an antihistamine to block allergic reactions, a decongestant to clear a stuffy nose, an anticholinergic to reduce mucus, and an anti-inflammatory to ease swelling.
  

Home Remedies

• Warm compress: Apply a warm compress to the forehead or sinus areas to reduce sinus pressure and ease headache pain.
  
• Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a hot shower or bowl of hot water can help relieve congestion and clear the sinuses.
  
• Saline nasal spray: This can help clear mucus from the sinuses, reducing congestion and headache discomfort. The Allermi Salinity Spray is a natural moisturizing saline nasal mist that cleans and hydrates the nasal passages. It’s free from harsh chemicals and provides soothing relief.
  
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and reduce sinus congestion, which can lessen headache pain.
  
• Adequate rest: Getting enough sleep can help with fatigue, which often worsens both allergy symptoms and headaches. Rest also allows your immune system to function better and helps your body manage stress. 
  

Avoiding Triggers

• Staying indoors: During times when pollen levels are high or allergens are in the air, staying inside can help you avoid exposure.
  
• Use HEPA filters: Install HEPA filters in your home to capture allergens like dust and pet dander. They help improve the air quality, making it cleaner and easier for you to breathe.
  
• Clean regularly: Dust and vacuum often to remove allergens from your home. Make sure to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, as it traps tiny particles better than regular vacuums.
  
• Use allergen-proof pillows and mattress covers: These covers prevent dust mites and other allergens from building up on your pillows and mattress while you sleep.
  
• Wear protective gear: If you have to go outside when pollen levels are high, wearing sunglasses and a mask can help. A study found that wearing sunglasses, in addition to taking allergy medication, reduces eye symptoms [*].
  
• Shower and change clothes: After being outside, take a shower and change your clothes to remove any pollen or allergens that may have stuck to your body or clothing. This can help prevent these allergens from making your allergy symptoms worse.
  

The Bottom Line

Allergies can cause headaches, like sinus headaches and migraines, due to swelling in the sinuses. To feel better, try to find out what causes your allergies. 
Take medicine as prescribed by your doctor, and try home remedies and lifestyle changes. Avoiding allergens and keeping the air clean in your home can also help.

References:

1. Maurya, A., Qureshi, S., Jadia, S., & Maurya, M. (2019). “Sinus Headache”: Diagnosis and Dilemma?? An Analytical and Prospective Study. Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, 71(3), 367. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12070-019-01603-3
2. Saberi, A., Nemati, S., Shakib, R. J., Kazemnejad, E., & Maleki, M. (2012). Association between allergic rhinitis and migraine. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences : The Official Journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, 17(6), 508. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3634285/
3. Ozturk, A. B., Celebioglu, E., Karakaya, G., & Kalyoncu, A. F. (2013). Protective efficacy of sunglasses on the conjunctival symptoms of seasonal rhinitis. International forum of allergy & rhinology, 3(12), 1001–1006. https://doi.org/10.1002/alr.21214