Do you struggle with sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose and nasal congestion that won’t clear up? If you’re not sure whether you need sinus care services or allergy treatment, paying attention to your symptoms is crucial. A better understanding of your symptoms and the support of an Atlanta allergist will ensure that you get the right treatment for a quick recovery. Let’s take a look at how allergists diagnose sinus infections and seasonal allergies.
How to Know if Your Symptoms Are Allergies or a Sinus Infection
Sinus infections and seasonal allergies are often connected, with allergic reactions potentially creating the conditions for sinusitis. With the possibility of these illnesses overlapping, learning more about their underlying causes can help you tell what’s really going on with your body.
Understand the Key Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies triggered by pollen, mold and dust can lead to itchy or watery eyes, runny nose (with clear mucus) and sneezing. These reactions will typically vary depending on factors like the levels of pollen in the air, and the amount of time spent indoors or outdoors. Most people will not have any signs of a fever, and can relieve seasonal allergy symptoms by avoiding the allergen.
Common Symptoms of a Sinus Infection
Patients with a sinus infection are more likely to experience thick yellow or green mucus, a fever, plus a reduced sense of smell. Sinusitis symptoms typically last more than 10 days and also include an uncomfortable pressure around the forehead, cheeks and bridge of the nose.
Shared Symptoms of Sinusitis and Seasonal Allergies
While many sinus infections and seasonal allergy symptoms differ, there will be some similarities. Both conditions typically result in nasal congestion, a runny nose and postnasal drip, and people may also experience persistent headaches and fatigue.
Techniques to Differentiate Sinus Infections and Allergies
To clarify whether you or your child are dealing with a sinus infection or a seasonal allergy, it’s worth narrowing the focus to a few key symptoms. The following quick comparison should help clarify why you’re feeling unwell.
- Itchy eyes and sneezing are more likely caused by allergies.
- Facial pain and thick mucus are more common with a sinus infection.
- Symptoms linked to specific seasons or triggers suggest allergies.
- Sinus infections usually last 10 days or more and gradually worsen.
- A high temperature is more likely to be a sign of a sinus infection.
Whether you’re dealing with a suspected seasonal allergy or sinus infection, it’s important to visit a specialist if symptoms persist. An allergist can perform tests to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and provide a comprehensive allergy or sinus infection treatment.
Sinus Infection and Seasonal Allergy Care in Atlanta
At Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center we support patients managing congestion, runny nose, headaches and itchy eyes from seasonal allergies and sinus infections. Visit one of our Atlanta-area locations for professional testing and treatment. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment now.
