Most people can't tell the difference between allergies, a condition that can be treated with over-the-counter medications, and sinusitis, a condition that requires a doctor's diagnosis and prescription medicines. It's not that people don't know there's a difference. It's only that the symptoms mimic each other so closely, that many people self diagnose and say they have seasonal allergies when what they really have is more serious.
In fact, only 36 percent of people who have such symptoms seek medical advice when more than 7 million suffer from chronic sinus infections. If you have what you think is seasonal allergies, you should see a doctor if you recognize the following signs and symptoms.
Sinus Pain and Headaches
While it's common to experience headaches when you have seasonal allergies, a sinus headache is different. It is normally centered right behind the eyes and cheekbones, and it is a pressure headache, meaning that your head might feel like it's going to explode. You might also experience pain in your ear, tooth and jaw. Unlike seasonal allergy headaches, sinus infection headaches continue to get worse as time goes on, and they are often worse in the morning.
Mucus and Postnasal Drip
Your nose will run like crazy during allergy season, but the fluid that comes out is usually clear. However, if you notice thick yellow or green mucus draining from your nose or down the back of your throat, you're likely dealing with a sinus infection. While you will have to blow your nose constantly with both conditions, you can tell when you have a sinus infection by the color of the discharge on the tissue. Once the color turns for the worse, it's time to see a doctor.
Prolonged and Increasingly Worse Symptoms
Although they are very bothersome, allergy symptoms clear up when the levels of allergens in the air decreases. Sinusitis, on the other hand, causes symptoms that will not usually get better on their own. In fact, symptoms associated with a sinus infection usually continue to get worse with time. People with sinus infections also have other symptoms that continue to get worse, such as dizziness, fatigue and decreased sense of smell. They also can develop worsening bad breath.
If you suspect that you have a sinus infection rather than seasonal allergies, make an appointment with your doctor. You will likely need antibiotics and some other medications to get some relief from your symptoms. To learn more, contact a company like http://www.oakbrookallergists.com with any questions or concerns you have.
Share1 May 2015
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