Nasal Allergies or a Sinus Infection? Similarities, Differences, and Treatments
Do you have allergies or a sinus infection? The symptoms of these two common issues often overlap - making it difficult to self-treat the problem. Before you try a home remedy or over the counter option, take a look at the differences between allergies and an infection and the best ways to find relief.
What Are the Similarities?
Nasal allergies and sinus infections often have the same or similar symptoms. While the two conditions have different underlying causes, patients with either issue may experience:
- Pain or discomfort . Inflammation and irritation inside the sinus cavities from an allergic reaction to a seasonal or another trigger or a viral or bacterial infection can cause pain above or below the eye area.
- Nasal discharge . Drainage may come out of your nose or flow down the back of your throat with either condition. Even though both issues can cause nasal drainage, infections typically cause green, yellow, or cloudy-looking mucous.
- Nasal congestion . Some patients experience nasal congestion, or a stuffy nose, with either sinus-related issues or allergies.
Along with these symptoms, nasal allergies and a viral or bacterial sinus infection may also cause a cough - especially if you have uncontrolled post-nasal drip.
What Are the Differences?
The primary difference between a nasal allergy and a sinus infection is the cause. Again, an allergy has a trigger - such as a seasonal change, a plant or plant part (e.g., pollen, ragweed, trees, or grass), pet dander, dust, smoke, chemicals, or another similar environmental factor. In comparison, viral or bacterial particles cause an infection.
While the symptoms may seem similar, they don't all (or always) overlap. The top differences between an allergy and a sinus infection include:
- Itchy eyes . An allergic reaction may cause red, itchy, or irritated eyes - a sinus infection does not. Some sinusitis patients may also have what seems like allergic eyes. But this type of irritation is a result of a viral or bacterial invasion and not an environmental trigger.
- Sneezing . Whether ragweed, cat fur, or paint fumes trigger your allergy, it's possible you'll sneeze (along with other nasal symptoms). A sinus infection on its own isn't likely to cause this symptom.
- Fever . Allergies shouldn't cause your body temperature to rise. If you have nasal symptoms, head pain, and a fever, it's likely you have an infection.
- Bad breath . Some sinus infection patients may also experience bad breath. Allergies won't cause this symptom. But that doesn't mean someone with an allergy can't have bad breath. Before you assume the breath and sinus issues are or aren't related, consult with a doctor for a diagnosis.
The symptoms aren't the only differences between nasal allergies and sinus infections. Beyond what to look for and the diagnostic processes, each issue has its own treatment.
What Are the Treatments?
Both allergies and infections can cause uncomfortable or irritating symptoms. But this doesn't mean you have to live with facial pain and pressure, nasal discharge, or other related issues. The first step to treatment is a correct diagnosis. Never attempt to diagnosis your own sinus problem. Only a licensed doctor, such as an allergist, can evaluate and diagnose your sinus issues.
The treatment for your sinus condition depends on the cause. A viral sinus infection will typically resolve on its own. But if you have a bacterial infection, you'll need an antibiotic. Patients who have diagnosed nasal allergies have treatment options that may include:
- Preventative measures . Avoid all potential allergy triggers. The doctor can help you to determine what seasonal, interior, or exterior factors may cause an allergic reaction.
- Oral antihistamines . These over the counter and prescription medications can reduce symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, and runny nose.
- Nasal sprays . When used as a preventative method, a prescription spray may stop or reduce nasal allergies.
- Decongestants . Short-term use of these medications can alleviate nasal congestion and related postnasal drip.
If your symptoms don't respond to preventive strategies or oral medications, the doctor may recommend regular allergy shots. A licensed medical provider in the allergist's office gives these injections.
Do you need nasal allergy relief? Contact the Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Fort Worth for more information.
