You’ve heard it from friends and family many times, and you may even have said it yourself: “My allergies are flaring up.” Allergies are often the go-to explanation when sinus symptoms appear. Given how common allergies are (about 50% of allergy tests return at least one positive result), it’s not an unreasonable guess.
VIRAL INFECTION
The reality is that a sudden onset of sinus and nasal symptoms, particularly if they involve a cough, sore throat, stuffy nose and some level of feeling poorly, is more likely to be a viral infection. This is especially the case for symptoms that come on suddenly and affect multiple areas all at once.
When sinus symptoms appear with clear drainage, you most likely have caught a cold. Although allergy medication can help alleviate cold symptoms, you may find cold and flu medications more helpful. These viral infections usually resolve on their own after about a week, so it’s reasonable to wait things out. Just remember to take precautions not to spread the infection to others, and see your primary care provider if symptoms worsen or linger.
CHRONIC NASAL CONGESTION
Another condition that is mistaken for allergies is chronic nasal congestion. While chronic nasal congestion can be caused by allergies — and, in fact, often is — steroid nasal sprays and antihistamine nasal sprays usually work pretty well. Chronic nasal congestion also can be caused by bacterial infections. In this case, patients experience more facial pain and colored nasal discharge. Their symptoms do not respond as well to steroid and antihistamine sprays.
WHEN TO SEEK A SPECIALIST
If your sinus symptoms are chronic (especially if they involve colored discharge or mid-facial pain) or if you’ve had sinus surgery, you should seek a specialist’s help. Don’t assume that you are stuck living with nasal and sinus symptoms. Whether the cause is allergic rhinitis, infection or structural issues like a deviated septum, many treatment options are available.
In these chronic cases, an ear, nose and throat doctor can get to the bottom of what’s causing your sinus issues. He or she can provide an effective treatment plan to get you breathing easy again.
Dr. Peter Casano is an ear, nose and throat physician at Ochsner Health in Diamondhead. Reach him at (228) 220- 5200 or via ochsner.org.