Just an Allergy or a Full-blown Sinus Infection?

                                                                                         

Each year, it is estimated that 39 million people in the United States suffer from sinusitis and about 32 million from allergies. While some symptoms are similar, these two health conditions are still different in many ways.

An allergy is a disorder of the immune system. An allergic reaction is triggered when a person is overexposed to allergens or irritants such as pollen or dust. Below are some of the allergic signs you should be aware of:

• Sneezing
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Stuffy or runny nose
• White or clear mucus
• Burning sensation in eyes or nose

On the other hand, sinus infection means your nasal passages or sinuses are inflamed. Depending on what type of sinusitis you have, symptoms may last for only a few days (acute sinusitis) to three months (chronic sinusitis). Listed below are some of the signs that indicate you may be suffering from sinusitis:

• Headaches and facial pain
• Cough, fever and fatigue
• Nasal congestion due to excess mucus
• Runny nose with mucus that is thick, yellow or green
• Reduced sense of smell
• Sore throat, making it difficult to swallow

Win Your Battle Against Allergies

If you feel that you are prone to having allergies, then prevention should be your number one priority. Keep your windows and doors closed, especially during the fall season. Change your clothing when you return home because pollen or dust can accumulate in your clothes. Taking a shower is also advised to get rid of irritants that may have accumulated in your body or hair. Keep your house clean, with your floors mopped and vacuumed. Use facial masks when doing work that involves contact with dust or pollens. A humidifier may also be used to keep your sinuses moist, helping you breathe easier. If you are experiencing allergies, take antihistamines and decongestants to relieve the symptoms. The use of saline sprays is also recommended to clear your sinuses of irritants. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

Getting Rid of a Sinus Infection

When dealing with a sinus infection, it is important to take action fast to prevent other complications. Below are some steps to get rid of sinusitis:
1. Consult your doctor to identify the cause of infection and learn what the proper treatment to undergo. Antibiotics should be taken if the infection is caused by bacteria. Anti-fungal medicines are prescribed if caused by a fungus. If due to allergies, steroid nasal sprays can be administered.
2. Take oral decongestants to relieve stuffy nose. For pain relief, over the counter pain relievers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, can be taken.
3. Try home remedies such as steam treatments and saline irrigation. Steam treatments are very helpful in getting rid of thick phlegm, while saline irrigation clears out excessive mucus and other irritants in the sinuses.
4. Drink lots of liquid such as orange juice and water. Chicken soups and hot teas are also advisable.
5. Cut down on smoking, or if possible, quit the habit completely as smoking damages the lining of the sinus.
6. If home remedies and medicines are not effective, consult your doctor about endoscopic surgery.

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