Can allergies trigger headaches?

Yes, allergies can be associated with headaches, but the cause isn't always the allergy itself. During allergy season, congestion, sinus pressure, poor sleep, and exposure to environmental triggers may contribute to head pain or may coincide with a migraine attack.

Interestingly, research has found that many people who believe they have a “sinus headache” actually have migraine. In one study of 2,991 people with a history of self-described or physician-diagnosed “sinus headache,” 88% were found to have migraine rather than a sinus-related headache.

If your headaches repeatedly appear during allergy season, keep track of your allergy symptoms, headache symptoms, sleep, weather, and possible triggers. This can help you and your healthcare professional identify a pattern.

For comfort during a headache, Soothie Hoodie can be used as a complementary wellness option. Its hot/cold gel packs and gentle pressure may feel soothing around the head and upper neck.

Sources

Mayo Clinic — Hay fever (allergic rhinitis): Symptoms & causes
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20373039
Schreiber et al., Archives of Internal Medicine — Prevalence of migraine in patients with a history of self-reported or physician-diagnosed “sinus” headache
https://doi.org/10.1001/archinte.164.16.1769

If headaches are frequent, severe, or different from your usual pattern, consider speaking with a healthcare professional.