Because of the similarity of symptoms between the two conditions, it can make treatment difficult. Both conditions have different treatments. Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences between sinusitis and allergies and learn what you can do to treat them.
What Causes Allergies?
Allergies are caused by an immune system response when your body detects an allergen. Allergens can be anything from mold and pollen to certain foods.
To determine what allergies you have, make sure you get an allergy test. An allergy test helps determine your allergens allowing you to take precautionary measures and limit your allergic reactions.
What Causes Sinus Infections?
Unlike allergies with allergens, sinus infections can have a lot of causes. While a sinus infection is a fluid build-up in the sinuses that leads to germ growth, there can be many factors that lead to this.
Sinus infections can be caused bacterially, virally, or even fungally. If you have physical impediments to your sinus that prevent proper drainage, such as sinus infections, you may be susceptible to more sinus infections.
Symptom Differences Between Sinusitis and Allergies
Though sharing many symptoms, there are key symptoms that can help you tell the difference between the two. If you have a fever, cough or sore throat, pain or ‘swollen’ feeling around the eyes and cheeks, you may have sinusitis.
To be certain about what is causing your symptoms, visit a doctor. Make sure allergy tests, a nasal endoscopy, and a low-dose MiniCat instant CT scan are taken for a successful diagnosis.
Sinusitis and Allergy Treatment at St. Louis Sinus Center
At St. Louis Sinus Center, we can help determine which condition is ailing you and help you with your journey of symptom relief.
From medications such as decongestants and steroids to physical interventions like balloon sinus dilations, we will utilize all the tools at our disposal to help you. With a team of dedicated individuals, including Dr. James Gould who is recognized as a National Center of Excellence for his work, you can expect diligence and compassion.
The first step toward relief begins with diagnosis. Knowing what you have informs your treatment. Give us a call at 314-450-7720 to schedule an appointment.
