This article will discuss the differences between allergy and sinus infection symptoms and how to tell the difference.
Symptoms
Allergies
Symptoms of an acute allergy attack may include:
Itching, especially of the eyes or noseSneezingCoughingWatery eyesRunny nose (usually mucus appear clear or watery)Skin rashes (hives)
Symptoms of chronic allergies may include:
Congestion Headache Sore throat Postnasal drip Decreased sense of smell Fatigue Dark circles under the eyes
Sinus Infections
Symptoms of a sinus infection may include:
Postnasal dripRunny nose with mucus that is not clear but yellow or green in colorCongestionPain and tenderness in the face (often around the eyes and nose)HeadachesToothachesCoughingFeverFatigueBad breath
Causes
Allergies
Allergies are the result of an overreaction by your immune system in response to a specific substance (called an allergen). During this process, a substance called histamine is released, which is largely responsible for many of the symptoms associated with allergies.
Sinus Infection
The sinuses are hollow cavities in the skull which are lined with mucous membranes. A sinus infection can occur when these cavities become inflamed (swollen) or blocked.
Infections can be caused by different kinds of germs including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Sinus infections frequently occur after you’ve suffered congestion from a recent cold or allergies.
Sinus infections are also more likely to occur in people who have a deviated septum, nasal polyps, or a weakened immune system.
Diagnosis
Allergies
Allergies are often diagnosed by a specialist called an immunologist, although allergy testing may be ordered or performed by other types of healthcare providers as well.
Tests used to diagnose allergies include:
Blood tests (IgE testing)Skin scratch testingIntradermal allergy tests
Skin and intradermal testing involves exposing you to potential substances (allergens) and then monitoring your reaction to the substance.
Sinus Infection
To diagnose a sinus infection, a healthcare provider will usually start by asking you about your symptoms and conducting a physical examination, checking for swelling or blockage in the nose and throat using a tool called an endoscope.
Sometimes a CT scan is used to help with diagnosis.
Treatment
Allergies
Identifying the substance you are allergic to and avoiding it is an essential part of managing allergies.
Medications to control symptoms or alter the immune response are commonly used and may include:
Antihistamines Decongestants Nasal or oral corticosteroids Epinephrine
Sinus Infection
If your sinus infection was caused by untreated allergies, using the treatments outlined above for allergies is an important component of treating a sinus infection.
Other various treatments are used for managing symptoms of a sinus infection, as well as any underlying causes of infection.
Treatments for managing symptoms of a sinus infection include:
Decongestants Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen Nasal irrigation Increased fluid intake Cool mist humidifier
Treatments used to address the root cause of the infection include:
AntibioticsLeukotriene antagonistsSteroid nasal spraysSurgery to correct a deviated septum or to remove nasal polyps
Prevention
You can prevent allergies by working with your healthcare provider to identify substances you are allergic to and potential ways to avoid them. You should also discuss the appropriate use of medications to manage your condition.
Preventing sinus infections involves treating allergies and congestion caused by colds or upper respiratory infections. Infection prevention techniques, such as hand washing and staying away from others who are sick, are also important.
You can help bolster your immune system by getting enough sleep, exercising, eating a healthy diet, and drinking plenty of fluids.
A Word From Verywell
Both allergies and sinus infections can cause significant symptoms that can impair your quality of life. Treatment and relief are available for both, so you should see a healthcare provider if you’ve had significant symptoms of either condition that have lasted more than two weeks.
