How Do I Know if it’s Sinus or Allergies?

Sinus-related symptoms and allergy symptoms overlap. Both cause your nose to become stuffed up. If the cause is allergies, your nose gets stuffed up because it is trying to flush out the allergens.

Sinus-related issues can develop from a cold or allergies. Either of these can cause the sinuses to become inflamed, which blocks mucus from draining and can lead to an infection of the sinuses. If you have allergies, sinus problems are more likely to happen.

A stuffed-up nose is a symptom of both allergies and sinus problems. Allergies may include:

• Runny nose and sneezing
• Watery/itchy eyes
• Wheezing

If it is sinus-related, you may also have:

• Thick, colored mucus
• Headache or pain in the teeth
• Painful, swollen feeling around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead
• Post-nasal drip
• Bad breath
• Cough and sore throat
• Fever
• Fatigue

It can be difficult to be certain what you are dealing with, so it is best to see a doctor to be sure.

Yes, tests can be done to check for a sinus infection and/or allergies.

Sinus infections are generally diagnosed by a doctor by analyzing your symptoms and possibly looking inside your nose. A look inside your nose is done with an otoscope. The symptoms may be a strong indication that you have a sinus infection, but verification may require this extra step. If further testing is required an endoscope may be used.

Allergies can be tested by various means. One of the more common tests is the scratch test. This test checks for immediate allergic reactions to allergens. The tests are done to identify allergies to pollen, pet dander, mold, foods, and dust mites. Other tests that are done for allergies include the skin injections test to check for responses to insect venom and penicillin. The patch test is done to check for allergens that do not have an immediate response.

Treatments for allergies are mainly the treatment of the symptoms. Antihistamines and decongestants are the most common treatment when sneezing and watering eyes are the problem. Rinsing your nasal passages can also be an effective treatment for allergies. Avoidance is another treatment for allergies when that is possible.

Most of the time sinus-related problems can be treated with over-the-counter medications, as well. Decongestants, antihistamines, and pain relievers are most often needed. A saline spray to help clear the sinuses is also very beneficial. If the sinus infection is caused by a bacteria or fungus, an antibiotic will be needed to treat this.

If you live in or near Coral Gables and Palmetto Bay, FL, then Piniella Asthma and Allergy can help you with sinus infections and allergy testing and treatments. We provide a comprehensive range of testing services and treatments for allergies and nasal and sinus issues. The right diagnosis for allergies and sinus-related issues is important. The right diagnosis will allow for the right treatment. Call us to schedule an appointment. We will be happy to work with you and get you feeling better. We serve patients from Coral Gables FL, Palmetto Bay FL, Westchester FL, Brownsville FL, Kendall FL, Pinecrest FL, Richmond West FL, and Goulds FL.