Allergic reactions can sometimes wreak havoc on your sinuses, causing you to wonder if allergies ultimately cause sinusitis. To get to the bottom of why allergies and sinus infections are so similar and sometimes connected, let’s address their differences and similarities.
What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, is the result of inflammation from an infected sinus cavity. You have eight sinus cavities within your face, ranging from your forehead to the midrange section between your eyes and mouth. When they are infected, you can experience issues like:
- Mucus that is thick and discolored
- Facial pressure
- Weakened sense of taste and smell
- Pain in the mouth, especially the gums or teeth
- Fever
Acute Sinusitis vs Chronic Sinusitis
For some people, sinusitis is a temporary issue and lasts roughly 10 days. For others, it can be a lifelong problem that often accompanies allergy attacks, asthma attacks, and similar issues.
How can I treat my acute sinusitis?
Acute sinus infections can most commonly be treated with solutions including:
- Nasal sprays
- Decongestant medicines
- Allergy medications
- Pain relievers
How can I treat my chronic sinusitis?
Patients with chronic sinus infections can usually treat their sinusitis with the same medications and solutions as acute patients. However, some may find more lasting relief from procedures like:
- Balloon sinuplasty
- Surgery
Surgery is often a last resort when all other options for treatment have failed.
What are Allergies?
Allergies are the side effects that happen when your body’s immune system responds to an allergen. Reactions are often aggressive as your body fights to capture and remove the allergen from your system. For many, allergens trigger reactions like:
- Excessive sneezing
- Congestion in the sinuses
- Stuffy and runny nose
- Watery eyes
Allergies tend to appear in certain seasons when outdoor pollutants like pollen are present. They can also be a year-round issue, triggered by dust, pet dander, mold spores, and other irritants.
How can I treat my allergies?
Allergies can be treated by solutions including:
- Nasal sprays
- Antihistamines
- Decongestant medicines
- Oral steroids
- Immunotherapy
Can Allergies Ultimately Lead to Sinusitis?
For some patients, yes. Allergic reactions can eventually turn into a case of sinusitis. It can’t work the other way around, though. A sinus infection cannot lead to allergies.
Dr. Brauer can diagnose and treat your sinusitis!
Whether your sinusitis is acute or chronic, Bluegrass Family Allergy can offer relief to your sinus infection. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Brauer today. Call us: 270-228-2811