Is It a Sinus Infection or Seasonal Allergies?

This time of year, it’s easy to confuse seasonal allergies and sinus infecons. You’re probably staying inside—where the germs that cause sinusis can spread easily—to avoid the cold weather. But spring, one of the most difficult mes for allergy sufferers, is right around the corner. So, when you feel that telltale twinge in your sinuses, how do you know which it is—allergies or sinus infection?

Allergies pop up at different times of the year for different people, but spring has a reputation for being the most challenging time for allergy sufferers. Unlike sinus infections, which are typically caused by a bacteria or a virus, allergies are the body’s response to substances and materials that are usually harmless. Common seasonal allergies include:  

• Grass pollen

• Mold  

• Ragweed

• Tree pollen 

Grass and tree pollen tend to be specific to spring and summer, whereas ragweed and mold are culprits of fall seasonal allergies. Some allergens, such as dust mites, molds, pet dander, and pollen, can cause symptoms throughout the year, regardless of the weather. 

If you think you have seasonal allergies, watch for the following symptoms:  

• Congestion

• Coughing

• Fatigue

• Itchy eyes, nose, and throat

• Postnasal drip, or mucus in the back of one’s throat

• Runny nose

• Sneezing

• Swollen eyes, lips, mouth, or throat

• Watery eyes 

Staying well hydrated can help combat allergies, because drinking water helps thin the mucus in nasal passages and reduce congestion.

A sinus infection, also called “sinusitis,” presents in two forms—acute or chronic. Acute sinus infections 
last from 10 days to eight weeks, and a chronic sinus infection lasts much longer—it’s typically ongoing. 
Both forms of sinusitis are caused by bacteria or a virus, which leads to inflammation in your sinuses, or 
the spaces in your cheeks, forehead, and nose. This inflammation leads to the hallmark symptom of a 
sinus infection—the sinus headache. Although sinus infections aren’t considered contagious, bacteria 
and the viruses that cause them can spread from person to person. 

If you think you have a sinus infection, watch for the following symptoms: 

• Bad breath

• Cough

• Headache

• Facial pressure

• Fatigue

• Fever

• Postnasal drip, or mucus in the back of one’s throat

• Pressure or pain in the ears

• Pressure or pain in the mouth or teeth

• Runny nose

• Stuffy nose

• Runny nose

 
If you suspect you’re suffering from a sinus infection, you may find relief at home with a cool-mist 
humidifier, nasal irrigation tool, saline rinse, steamy shower, or warm compress. 

As you can see, seasonal allergies and sinus infections have many overlapping symptoms, so if you’re not feeling well, a primary care provider can help diagnose your symptoms and suggest treatments. If you do not have one, find a primary care physician or nurse practitioner near you who is accepting new patients. 

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Treatments for sinus infections may include pain relievers, decongestants, nasal sprays, and more. For seasonal allergies, many people may choose to take an allergy medication either over the counter or prescribed by their doctor. If symptoms like these present at any time of the year, don’t delay. Schedule an appointment with your doctor so you can return to feeling well.

If a sinus infection or allergies strike while your doctor’s office is closed, consider scheduling a same-day appointment to speak with a BJC provider quickly. 

• Reserve a time at one of the BJC Medical Group’s Convenient Care locations.

• Schedule a virtual care appointment via video from the comfort of your home.