A headache can be frustrating on its own, but figuring out why your head hurts can be even more difficult. During flu and allergy season, a headache may be caused by several different things. The flu and seasonal allergies can both cause congestion, fatigue, and pressure around the head and face. However, they usually come with different combinations of symptoms. Looking at the bigger picture, including whether you have a fever, body aches, itchy eyes, or sudden symptoms, can provide some helpful clues. So, is your headache from the flu or seasonal allergies? Here are some differences to keep in mind.
Are you looking for seasonal urgent care services in Denver, CO? Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill. Our providers are available to treat your symptoms any day of the week. Simply walk in or book below to get started.
What Does a Flu Headache Feel Like?
A headache can be one of the symptoms that accompanies influenza. Flu-related headaches may occur along with the body’s broader response to the infection. If the flu is causing your headache, you may also notice the following symptoms:
- Fever or chills
- Significant fatigue
- Body aches
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sweating
- Loss of appetite
Flu symptoms often develop relatively suddenly. You may feel fine one day and then develop several symptoms within a short period of time. A headache accompanied by fever, chills, body aches, and sudden exhaustion is more suggestive of a viral illness such as the flu than seasonal allergies.
Can Seasonal Allergies Cause Headaches?
Yes, seasonal allergies can contribute to headaches, especially when they cause significant nasal congestion and sinus pressure. When allergens like pollen trigger inflammation in your nasal passages, congestion can develop. That pressure may contribute to discomfort around your forehead, cheeks, nose, or eyes. Allergies are also more likely to cause symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a clear, runny nose. Unlike the flu, seasonal allergies typically do not cause fever or significant body aches.
Look for a pattern of allergy symptoms, like:
- You have itchy, watery eyes
- Your nose is congested
- Symptoms get worse around certain triggers like pollen
- You don’t have a fever
- Symptoms continue for weeks
Could It Be a Sinus Infection Instead?
Sometimes a headache that seems like an allergy symptom may actually be related to sinus inflammation or a sinus infection. Sinus symptoms may include:
- Facial pressure or pain
- Nasal congestion
- Thick nasal drainage
- Post-nasal drip
- Cough
- Headache
- Reduced sense of smell
A sinus infection can develop after a cold or another respiratory illness. Symptoms that persist without improvement or become worse after initially improving may warrant an evaluation. It’s also possible for allergies and sinus problems to occur at the same time, which can make the cause of your headache harder to identify.
When Should I Visit Urgent Care For a Headache?
Most mild headaches can be managed at home, but some headaches warrant medical evaluation. Consider visiting an urgent care center if your headache:
- Is persistent or keeps returning
- Is becoming more severe
- Occurs with a persistent fever
- Occurs with worsening sinus pain or pressure
- Is accompanied by significant congestion or ear pain
- Is interfering with your normal activities
- Occurs with symptoms that are unusual for you
- Does not improve with your usual headache or allergy care
A healthcare provider can review your symptoms and determine whether allergies, influenza, a sinus infection, or another condition may be contributing to your headache.
Get Your Headache Diagnosed at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill Today, No Appointment Required
So, is your headache from the flu or seasonal allergies? The other symptoms you experience can offer important clues. A headache with sudden fatigue, fever, chills, body aches, cough, or sore throat may occur with the flu. A headache associated with sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, clear nasal drainage, and symptoms that flare around pollen may be more consistent with seasonal allergies. However, headaches can have many causes, and symptoms can overlap. If your headache is severe or accompanied by concerning symptoms, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill. We can help determine what may be causing it and whether you need further treatment. Questions? Please contact a member of our team directly at (303) 639-1000.