Headache clinic
Headache clinic for sinus and ENT-related headaches
Many headaches and facial pains start in the nose, sinuses or inner ear. The headache clinic looks for these causes with nasal endoscopy, scans and balance testing, so treatment targets the source instead of only relieving pain.
In short
When could a headache be an ENT problem?
A headache may have an ENT cause when it comes with a blocked nose, facial pressure, thick discharge, reduced smell, or dizziness. An ENT examination with nasal endoscopy helps confirm or rule this out.
- Headache with a blocked nose or facial pressure
- Pain around the eyes, cheeks or forehead that worsens on bending
- Headache with dizziness, ringing or ear fullness
- Headaches that keep returning despite painkillers
- Seek emergency care for a sudden severe headache, weakness, confusion or stiff neck
Conditions
Conditions we diagnose and treat
Sinus headache and facial pain
Pressure over the cheeks, forehead or between the eyes from sinusitis.
Chronic sinusitis
Long-standing sinus inflammation with recurring headache.
Contact point headache
Pain from a deviated septum or spur pressing inside the nose.
Nasal allergy
Allergic swelling that blocks sinus drainage and causes pressure.
Vestibular migraine
Migraine that comes with dizziness or vertigo.
Headache with ear problems
Pain referred from the ear, jaw joint or throat.
Diagnosis
Tests available in the clinic
The aim is to find the source, so treatment works for longer.
- Diagnostic nasal endoscopy
- CT scan review of the sinuses
- Allergy testing (skin prick test)
- Vestibular assessment and VNG
- Hearing tests
Treatment
Treatment and procedures
Treatment depends on the cause. Medicine comes first, and surgery is used only when a structural problem is confirmed.
Medical treatment
Sprays, rinses and medicine for sinusitis and allergy.
Allergy management
Allergen avoidance and immunotherapy for long-term control.
FESS (endoscopic sinus surgery)
Opening blocked sinuses through the nose when medicine is not enough.
Septoplasty
Straightening a deviated septum that presses inside the nose.
Turbinate reduction
Reducing swollen turbinates that block airflow.
Vestibular rehabilitation
Exercises for headache with dizziness and vestibular migraine.
Founder & Chief Consultant
Dr. Udayakumar, MBBS, MS (ENT)
ENT specialist in otology, rhinology, neurotology, hearing sciences, and vertigo and balance disorders. Former Senior Consultant in ENT at Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospital and Assistant Professor of ENT at Adhiparasakthi Medical College. Founder of Dr. Udaya’s ENT Wellness Centre (2018) and SAMANILAI Diagnostic & Therapeutic Centre (2023).
Also consulting in this clinic
FAQ
Common questions
How do I know if my headache is from the sinuses?
Sinus headaches usually come with a blocked nose, thick discharge, reduced smell, or pressure that worsens when bending forward. Nasal endoscopy and, if needed, a CT scan confirm whether the sinuses are involved.
Can a deviated septum cause headaches?
Sometimes. A bent septum or spur that touches the inside wall of the nose can cause pain around the eyes and forehead. If this is confirmed, septoplasty can relieve it.
Is every headache an ENT problem?
No. Many headaches are migraine or tension-type headaches. If no ENT cause is found, we will guide you to the right specialist, such as a neurologist.
When is a headache an emergency?
Go to an emergency department straight away for a sudden, severe headache, or a headache with weakness, confusion, fever with a stiff neck, or loss of vision.
Talk to an ENT specialist in Tambaram
Consultations Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Call ahead or send an appointment request and the clinic team will confirm your slot.