Ep. 228 Sinus Headaches vs. Migraines: Diagnosis and Treatment with Dr. Jessica Lee

Sinusitis or migraine? Understanding the difference between rhinogenic and primary headaches could change your treatment algorithm. In this episode of Backtable ENT, Dr. Jessica Lee, an otolaryngologist from Charleston ENT and Allergy, discusses the prevalence and treatment of sinus headaches with hosts Dr. Gopi Shah and Dr. Ashley Agan. --- SYNPOSIS The doctors discuss how half of sinus infection diagnoses are often misdiagnosed, with many patients having normal CT scans and nasal endoscopies. Dr. Lee emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between sinus-related headaches and migraines, noting that 80% of sinus headache complaints meet migraine criteria. The conversation covers the use of lifestyle medicine, supplements, medications, and the role of neurologists in managing chronic headaches. Dr. Lee also touches on the role of mycotoxins, drawing from evidence-based practices while stressing patient education and collaboration in treatment. --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 04:10 - Differentiating Sinus Headaches from Other Conditions10:07 - Lifestyle Factors and Migraine Management25:45 - Supplements and Treatments for Migraine30:01 - Iron Supplementation and Dietary Adjustments31:42 - Medication Management for Migraines34:52 - Botox as a Treatment Option44:50 - Mycotoxins and Mold Illness50:11 - Non-Pharmacologic Options for Headaches54:00 - Final Thoughts and Recommendations --- RESOURCES Dr. Jessica Leehttps://charlestonent.com/bio/jessica-lee/