Finding Relief for Sinus Infections in Alpharetta

For many of us, sinus infections are all too common. When you experience the telltale signs such as sinus pain or headaches, nasal discharge, congestion and throat irritation, it’s pretty easy to realize you’re dealing with a sinus infection.

What most people don’t know is that not all sinus infections are created equal. In fact, there is a very distinct difference between the two types. One form, often called sinusitis, is caused by a virus, while the other is caused by allergies.

It is important to know the source of your struggles because each one will require a different treatment process. Both forms of sinus infections are treated with decongestants. For sinusitis, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, painkillers, steroids or suggest home remedies. Allergies, on the other hand, are treated with medicines that block your immune system’s response to the allergen. Of course, you and your doctor must be aware of your allergy in order to go this route.

Below are some questions to ask that will help determine whether or not your sinus infections are caused by allergies. If these symptoms sound familiar, or you’re still not sure, the certified allergists at the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia would be happy to clear things up for you (literally).

How to Tell if Your Sinus Infections Are Caused by Allergies

Are You Sneezing?

If your sinus infection is accompanied by sneezes, it’s likely related to allergies. Sneezing is a common immune response, so viral sinus infections can provoke them as well. However, If you’re sneezing frequently or the sneezes seem to be brought on by a common allergic trigger, it might be your body’s response to an allergen.

Are You Experiencing Itchy, Watery Eyes?

While sneezing can be a bit less telling, itchy eyes accompanied by a sinus infection usually point to allergies. This is because when you have an allergy your body releases histamine, which causes swelling and inflammation, and your eyes are often affected.

Are You Experiencing Clear, Thin Discharge From Your Nose?

A runny nose is one of the nasal issues that allergies can cause. This is a symptom of allergic rhinitis and while it may be relatively harmless, it can certainly be irritating and interfere with everyday tasks. The good news is that it’s usually simple to treat and you can find relief through a prescribed medicine or a natural home remedy. An allergist at our Center can work with you to find the best solution.

Is It Typical Allergy Season for You?

If you struggle with seasonal allergies, you are probably familiar with the dreaded pollen and mold that arrive when the temperature increases, or the winter dust mites that tend to rear their heads when you spend more time indoors.

If you don’t have this issue, it’s also worth paying attention to changes in your environment, like if you are newly living in a home with pets or if you have altered your diet. While most allergies present themselves during childhood, you can develop a new allergy at any age, and lifestyle changes might call attention to an allergy you never new about. If any of these triggers seem like they might be the cause of your infections, our certified allergists can help provide some clarity and create a treatment plan that is unique to you.

Are You Experiencing Sinusitis Symptoms?

Just as the above symptoms often signal allergies, there are sinus infection-related symptoms that are unique to sinusitis. Rather than clear, thin discharge, patients who have sinusitis often complain of unusually thick yellow or green nasal discharge, tooth pain, bad breath, reduced sense of smell and taste and other symptoms that are less commonly associated with allergies.

If left untreated, these symptoms can become exasperated and lead to new, more serious symptoms, such as hearing and breathing issues. The only way to know for sure if your sinus infection is due to an underlying allergy condition is to consult with a medical professional. Our certified allergists at the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia are dedicated to providing vital sinus infection relief to sufferers in Alpharetta.