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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Headaches When Suffering From Respiratory Tract Infection?

I started out with a fever and flu like symptoms. Was told I have a viral upper respiratory infection after going to the er with the worst throbbing excruciating headache I ve ever had. The pain lasted for two days and started to subside once my nose started leaking and I had post nasal drip down my throat. How long is this going to leak?
Fri, 12 Jun 2015
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  User's Response
Hello!

I read your question carefully and understand your concern.

The symptoms you describe seem to be related to a probable sinus headache. I would like to explain that in upper respiratory ways infection, the sinus drainage to the nasal cavity is often blocked by the edema of the mucosa, causing this type of headache.

The nasal dripping is a good sign that the fluid collected into the sinuses is draining. If the fluid gets infected the headache may persist for a long period and antibiotics may be needed. If no infection it will last for several days, the time needed for the inflammation to restore.

I would recommend you some nasal decongestant drops for some days.

Hope to have been helpful!

Greetings! Dr. Aida
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What Causes Headaches When Suffering From Respiratory Tract Infection?

Hello! I read your question carefully and understand your concern. The symptoms you describe seem to be related to a probable sinus headache. I would like to explain that in upper respiratory ways infection, the sinus drainage to the nasal cavity is often blocked by the edema of the mucosa, causing this type of headache. The nasal dripping is a good sign that the fluid collected into the sinuses is draining. If the fluid gets infected the headache may persist for a long period and antibiotics may be needed. If no infection it will last for several days, the time needed for the inflammation to restore. I would recommend you some nasal decongestant drops for some days. Hope to have been helpful! Greetings! Dr. Aida