Is it Allergies or Sinusitis? How to Tell the Difference

Both nasal allergies and sinusitis cause disruptive discomfort, sharing some similarities yet remaining distinct conditions. While both affect the ear, nose, and throat differently, understanding their nuances is crucial for targeted treatment and lasting relief.

What Are Allergies?

Nasal allergies, or allergic rhinitis, are an inflammation of the nasal passages caused by hypersensitivity reactions of the immune system to allergens. When a susceptible person is exposed to an allergen, the immune system may mistakenly identify it as a threat and release histamine, which can cause allergy symptoms.

What Are the Causes of Allergies?

Allergic rhinitis develops when you inhale tiny airborne particles called allergens. A family history of allergies increases your susceptibility to developing this condition. Common culprits include:

What Are the Symptoms of Allergies?

Allergies can range from mild to severe, depending on how the immune system reacts to the allergen. Common symptoms include:

What Is Sinusitis?

A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, occurs when the tissue lining the sinuses becomes inflamed. Sinuses are air-filled spaces in the bones of the face, around the nose and eyes. When they are healthy, air flows freely through them. However, if mucus builds up and gets stuck, this creates a moist environment where bacteria, viruses, or fungi can grow, leading to a sinus infection.

What Are the Causes of Sinusitis?

Sinusitis can be caused by various factors, including:

• Viral Infections: The common cold and flu are common triggers for sinusitis.
• Bacterial Infections: Bacteria can sometimes grow in the trapped mucus, leading to inflammation.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergies can cause inflammation of the nasal passages, increasing mucus production.
• Structural Abnormalities: A deviated nasal septum or polyps can block the sinuses, restricting airflow and contributing to sinus infection.
• Environmental Factors: Many environmental irritants, such as smoke, pollution, and strong chemicals, can irritate the lining of the nasal passages, leading to sinus inflammation.
• Weakened Immune System: Frequent colds or respiratory infections can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight pathogens, allowing infections to take hold and progress to sinusitis.
• Cystic Fibrosis and Ciliary Disorders: If the tiny hair-like structures that normally clear mucus are not working properly, it can lead to a buildup of mucus and chronic sinus congestion.
• Frequent Air Travel and Diving: Abrupt pressure shifts can interfere with how sinuses drain, raising the chance of infection, particularly in people susceptible to sinus issues.

What Are the Symptoms of Sinusitis?

The symptoms of sinusitis can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Stuffy or blocked nose
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Facial pain or pressure (around the eyes, nose, and forehead)
• Thick yellowish or greenish mucus discharge
• Post-nasal drip
• A reduced sense of smell and taste

How Can You Tell If It’s Allergies or Sinusitis?

Allergies and sinusitis are sometimes difficult to tell apart. However, some key differences can help you determine which one you might be dealing with.

	Allergies	Sinusitis
Triggering Factors	Triggered by exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust, pet dander, and mould	Often develop after a viral or bacterial infection
Duration	Symptoms can persist for weeks or months if allergen exposure continues	Can last from 10 days (acute) to several weeks (chronic)
Symptom Onset	Symptoms appear immediately after allergen exposure	May develop gradually, often starting with a cold before developing into a more severe condition
Treatment	Symptoms improve with antihistamines, nasal steroids, and decongestants	Treatment depends on the cause

How Are They Treated?

The treatment plan for allergies and sinusitis can vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. Common treatment options for each condition include:

Treatment Options for Allergies

• Antihistamines: Reduce itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.
• Nasal Corticosteroids: Effective in treating and preventing nasal inflammation.
• Decongestants: Help relieve nasal congestion, but cannot be used for more than 3 days due to higher side effects.
• Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): Involve regular injections of small, gradually increasing doses of allergens to help build tolerance.

Treatment Options for Sinusitis

• Nasal Saline Sprays: Help reduce inflammation in the sinus linings.
• Decongestants: Commonly used to relieve acute sinusitis, but should be used cautiously.
• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain and fever.
• Antibiotics (For Bacterial Sinusitis): Prescribed only if the symptoms of bacterial sinusitis are severe and persistent.
• Surgery (For Chronic Sinusitis): May be recommended when chronic or recurrent sinus infections do not respond to non-surgical treatments.

When to See a Doctor?

If you have symptoms of allergies and sinusitis and are unsure of the cause, seeking medical attention for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment is crucial. Consulting an ENT specialist is particularly important if you experience:

When to See a Doctor?

• Symptoms that last for more than 10 days
• Severe facial pain or swelling
• High fever
• Allergy/sinusitis not improving with over-the-counter treatments
• Changes in vision
• Stiff neck
• Difficulty breathing

How Can You Prevent Allergies and Sinusitis?

While preventing allergies or sinusitis is not always possible, there are a few ways to reduce the risk and manage symptoms. These include:

Preventing Allergies

• Identify and avoid allergens (pollen, dust, pet dander)
• Use air purifiers to filter out allergens
• Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons
• Clean your home regularly to reduce dust and mould
• Eat a balanced diet
• Consider taking allergy shots for long-term relief
• Wash beddings weekly in hot water

Preventing Sinusitis

• Avoid upper respiratory infections by washing your hands frequently
• Practice good hygiene to prevent bacterial infections
• Quit smoking to reduce nasal inflammation
• Use a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist
• Treat colds as soon as possible
• Stay hydrated
• Get flu and pneumonia vaccines

Key Takeaways

Despite overlapping symptoms, distinguishing between allergies and sinus infections is crucial for effective treatment. Allergies typically onset abruptly with sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny or stuffy nose, while sinusitis often develops after a cold, causing facial pressure and thick nasal discharge.

Recognising when symptoms start, how long they last, and potential triggers can help you identify the likely cause and seek appropriate relief. When uncertain, consult an ENT specialist for a detailed evaluation. Our doctor, A/Prof Luke Tan, specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT conditions like allergies and sinusitis. Schedule your consultation, and let us determine the most effective treatment to help you breathe easier and regain your well-being. Call us at 6474 6116 today.