The true cause of migraine is still being studied, but many factors — like inflammation, hormones, neurological diseases, and genetics — may contribute to its development.
Migraine also involves a variety of risk factors and related conditions. You’re more likely to experience migraine if you’re female, middle-aged, or you smoke.
Sleep disorders, coronary artery disease, and autoimmune conditions are also risk factors.
Meanwhile, a bacterial or viral illness that results in a sinus infection is a common cause of sinus headaches.
The following factors could also cause chronic sinusitis, or inflamed sinuses, which often induce headaches involving facial pain and pressure:
- Deviated septum
- Nasal polyps
- Allergies
- Asthma
It’s not uncommon for these risk factors to overlap. For instance, deviated septum is a known migraine comorbidity, but it can also be a risk factor for other types of head pain like sinus headaches.
Can Allergies and Infected Sinuses Trigger Migraine?
Ongoing sinus inflammation or congestion could trigger migraine for people with chronic sinusitis, says Dr. Trenkle. He adds that allergies or mild sinus inflammation that cause congestion could also be triggers.
Up to 37 percent of people with allergies may also have migraine.
And evidence suggests that when certain foods trigger migraine, it could be due to a food allergy.
Asthma commonly co-occurs with migraine as well.
Can You Have Migraine and Sinus Headache at the Same Time?
It’s possible to experience both sinus-related headaches and migraine, especially if you have chronic sinus disease and a history of migraine attacks, says Trenkle.
In a study of 213 people with chronic sinusitis, 36.2 percent also had migraine.
No specific diagnosis covers this combination, but doctors can address both when necessary. Trenkle says his practice often helps people dealing with both conditions come up with personalized treatment plans to manage sinus inflammation while addressing migraine.