Sinus Infection

Many people who suffer from seasonal allergies often question at times whether or not they have a sinus infection. This is because the symptoms of an allergy with the irritation of the nasal passages which include the sneezing, stuffy nose, and watery eyes, are very similar to those of a sinus infection or sinusitis. In this medical guide you will learn to tell the differences between the two so you can seek medical treatment if necessary.

There are many different things that can affect an individual who suffers from allergies such as pollen, dust, mold, pet dander, certain plants, and food. When their body reacts to the allergens histamines are produced which causes inflammation of lining in the nasal passages and the eyes which produces a fluid to try and fight the allergen.

This creates the sneezing, itching and watering eyes, as well as sinus pressure and headache. These symptoms may last quite a long time even after the individual is no longer exposed to the allergen. While these symptoms are very much the same with a sinus infection, the cause of sinusitis is most commonly due to a bacterial infection which can occur from complications when having the common cold.

The noticeable differences between the two are that while the fluids with an allergen reaction are normally clear in color, with sinusitis they are typically a greenish or yellow color and the individual will often times run a fever and experience a sore throat.

While the allergy symptoms tend to go away after a few days, a sinus infection usually lasts seven or more. While sinusitis can potentially go away on its own and the symptoms relieved with over the counter medications such a saline spray, typically medical treatment is needed with a prescription for an antibiotic to clear the infection.

If you experience any of the symptoms associated with a sinus infection, you should make an appointment with your regular physician as delaying treatment for sinusitis can sometimes lead to more severe medical complications.