Allergy and Headaches
What is the role of allergy in these types of headaches?
Sinus headaches develop because of swollen sinus membranes. Allergic reactions to airborne pollens, dust, animal danders, molds as well as foods can lead to sinus obstruction. Treatment of the underlying allergic cause of sinus pain will result in long-term relief. Medications used to treat allergies include antihistamines, decongestants, intranasal steroids and cromolyn. In some cases, immunotherapy, or "allergy shots," may be recommended. When possible, of course, avoid the allergen if your allergy is caused by an avoidable substance-such as food or an animal.
A large number of recent scientific studies have described the importance of food allergy in migraine attacks. Some migraine sufferers will benefit from a careful evaluation of food allergy as a cause of their headaches. Some migraines are provoked by food additives or naturally occurring food chemicals such as monosodium glutamate (often added to Chinese food and packaged foods), tyramine (found in many cheeses), phenylethylamine (found in chocolate) or alcohol. The artificial sweetener aspartame and the preservative metabisulfite also may cause migraine. Often, only a few foods trigger migraines and, by limiting or avoiding their use, you can experience complete or marked relief without medication.
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