Allergies or a sinus infection? How to tell the difference

A stuffy nose, pressure in your face, and a headache can feel the same whether you have allergies or a sinus infection. Many people assume that sinus pressure always means infection, but that’s not always true. Michael Allen, MSN, RN, FNP-C, family medicine nurse practitioner at Beacon Portage Family Medicine, says knowing the difference can help you feel better sooner and avoid medicines you may not need.

Allergies often cause sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and a runny or stuffy nose. The drainage is usually clear. Symptoms can last for weeks and may come and go with pollen or other triggers. Allergies usually do not cause a fever, and many people feel better with allergy medicines.

“One sign that often points to allergies is the seasonal and/or recurrent aspect to it,” Michael said. “The symptoms often feel like they never really go away. Also, symptoms that seemingly get worse in certain settings, like outdoors, or when around animals, like dogs and cats.”

A sinus infection is more likely when symptoms last longer than seven to 10 days or get worse instead of better. You may notice thick yellow or green mucus, facial pressure or pain in your teeth. A fever can also be a sign. Sometimes the pain feels stronger on one side of the face.

“When patients mention symptoms that started to improve, then suddenly worsen a day or two later, it can point toward a sinus infection,” Michael explained.

To help determine whether or not you may have a sinus infection, your provider may touch your face over your sinus areas, like your forehead and cheeks, to see if you have increased pain or pressure. “We also look in your ears, nose and mouth for signs of congestion or infection,” he added.

Most sinus infections start as viral colds. These often improve on their own. Antibiotics do not help viral infections or allergies and taking them too soon can cause side effects. In many cases, waiting a little longer and treating symptoms is the healthiest first step.

There are simple things you can try at home to feel better. For allergy symptoms, antihistamines or nasal steroid sprays may help.

Michael advises that if you have allergies, it’s important to try to identify them and avoid those allergens if you can. However, “Some allergens are unavoidable, so being consistent and taking your allergy medication daily can help mitigate the symptoms. Even with allergy medication, you will likely still have some symptoms.”

For sinus pressure, drinking plenty of water, resting and using saline nasal sprays or rinses can ease discomfort. Warm steam may also help you breathe easier.

“If you think you might have a sinus infection, the best things you can do are rest and hydrate,” Michael said. “Over-the-counter medication can help manage symptoms like nasal congestion or pain. Most people will recover without a need for antibiotics.”

If your symptoms keep getting worse, last longer than expected or interfere with your daily life, it’s a good idea to reach out to your Beacon primary care provider.

Beacon’s primary care providers are here to treat you and your family’s medical needs. Learn more and schedule online: https://beacon.health/4jsZl73