How to Tell If Your Chronic Nasal Congestion Is More Than Just Allergies

Allergies vs Chronic Sinusitis in Akron, OH: How to Tell the Difference

Allergies and chronic sinusitis can share similar symptoms, which is why many people can easily confuse one for the other. Determining what exactly causes your sinus symptoms is key to getting the appropriate treatment you need. Here’s how you can tell the difference between the two:

What are allergies?

Allergies are the immune system’s reaction to certain substances (called allergens) that seem otherwise harmless to other people. The immune system mistakes these substances for a threat, which causes the body to release histamine, which can cause common allergy symptoms such as frequent sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, and skin rash.

When hypersensitive individuals breathe in, digest, or simply touch common allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, certain foods, and certain medications, the body reacts.

Allergies are linked to nasal congestion because the body tries to flush out airborne allergens, which results in the swelling and inflammation of the sinuses. This is known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever. When the sinuses become swollen and inflamed, mucus can’t drain properly and gets trapped, causing mucus buildup and nasal congestion.

Common symptoms of allergies include:

• Frequent sneezing
• Runny nose with clear, thin, and watery discharge
• Nasal congestion, which causes difficulty breathing through the nose
• Itchy, watery, and red eyes
• Itchy nose, eyes, and throat
  Headaches
• Irritated or sore throat

What is chronic sinusitis?

Sinusitis is characterized by the irritation, swelling, and inflammation of the sinuses, which are hollow, air-filled spaces behind the nose, cheeks, and forehead. Sometimes, they can become swollen and irritated, which results in poor sinus drainage and mucus getting trapped, causing nasal congestion and breathing difficulties.

There are two common types of sinusitis: acute and chronic sinusitis. Acute sinusitis is a short-term condition that often improves within a few weeks, depending on the underlying cause.

On the other hand, chronic sinusitis is a long-term condition where symptoms usually persist for more than 12 weeks. This will usually need a different treatment approach, depending on clinical findings, nasal anatomy, and individual care needs.

Common symptoms of chronic sinusitis include:

• Nasal congestion, which causes difficulty breathing through the nose
• Postnasal drip, or mucus dripping down the back of the throat
• Facial pain and pressure, particularly around the nose, eyes, cheeks, and forehead
• Runny nose with thick green or yellow nasal discharge
• Reduced sense of smell or taste
• Headache
• Sore throat with coughing
• Pain that radiates to the ears, jaw, and teeth
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Halitosis, or chronic bad breath

Signs Your Chronic Nasal Congestion Is Due to More Than Just Allergies in Akron, OH

#1: Your symptoms last for more than 12 weeks

Allergies are typically triggered during certain seasons or exposure to certain substances and triggers. Symptoms tend to flare up and go away after some time. If your nasal congestion and other sinus symptoms seem to stick around for 12 weeks or more, you may be dealing with more than just allergies, but rather a case of sinusitis.

#2: You are experiencing thick nasal discharge or postnasal drip

Allergies usually cause a runny nose with clear, thin, and watery nasal discharge. If what you’re dealing with is thick yellow or green mucus discharge, it may be more than just allergies. Oftentimes, this is also accompanied by:

• A persistent sore, scratchy, or irritated throat
• Persistent coughing
• Postnasal drip, or mucus dripping down the back of the throat

#3: You have facial pain and pressure

While possible depending on the severity of your symptoms, allergies rarely cause true facial pain and pressure. On the other hand, chronic sinusitis often causes pain and pressure around the nose, eyes, cheeks, and forehead. This pain and pressure usually worsen when bending forward or moving the head quickly.

#4: You feel tired and fatigued all the time

While allergies can drain your energy, the tiredness and fatigue from chronic sinusitis can feel entirely different. This is mainly due to the chronic nasal congestion, restricted airflow, and breathing difficulties causing poor sleep quality and impact on concentration. If your feeling of extreme tiredness and fatigue goes well beyond peak allergy season, it may not be simple allergies and could be something more.

#5: Your symptoms don’t get better with standard medications

While allergy medications may help relieve allergy-related symptoms, persistent nasal congestion due to chronic sinusitis may require additional evaluation and treatment depending on the underlying cause.

#6: Your sinus issues seem to be due to structural issues

Some cases of chronic nasal congestion may be due to the presence of structural issues, abnormalities, or anomalies, such as nasal polyps or a deviated septum. A visit to an ENT clinic can include an evaluation of your nasal anatomy to determine whether structural issues, such as nasal polyps or a deviated septum, may be contributing to your symptoms.

Commonly Asked Questions About Sinus Issues and ENT Care in Akron, OH

What does an ENT in Akron, OH, treat?

An ENT, also known as an otolaryngologist, diagnoses and treats issues and conditions of the ears, nose, throat, neck, and related facial structures.

Depending on their training and clinical focus, some conditions that they may address include:

• Allergies
• Sinusitis
• Ear infections and hearing disorders
• Throat concerns
• Balance issues, such as dizziness and vertigo
• Sleep-related breathing disorders, such as severe snoring and sleep apnea

Available services vary per clinic and provider.

When should I see an otolaryngologist for nasal congestion in Akron, OH?

While some sinus issues may resolve with adequate rest, proper hydration, and appropriate home remedies and medications, consider seeing an otolaryngologist if your sinus issues persist for longer than 12 weeks, worsen, or recur frequently.

Moreover, seek prompt medical help for severe symptoms such as high fever, facial swelling, vision changes, and confusion.

Do I need a referral to visit an ENT clinic in Akron, OH?

Referral requirements vary by insurance provider and plan. Get in touch with your insurance provider to confirm requirements specific to your current plan.

Conclusion: Taking Care of Your Sinus Health With Buckeye Breathe Free

Buckeye Breathe Free provides ear, nose, and throat care services in Akron and the nearby Ohio communities. If you’ve been dealing with nasal congestion that seems to go beyond allergies, contact our team to learn more about sinus evaluation and how we can help.