How to “Achoose!” If It’s a Sinus Problem or Seasonal Allergies
Posted September 23, 2025
Understanding Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when your immune system overreacts to allergens in the environment. Common triggers include pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, as well as mold spores.Seasonal Allergies Symptoms
• Sneezing• Runny or stuffy nose
• Watery, itchy eyes
• Itchy throat or ears
• Postnasal drip
• Fatigue
When Do They Occur?
Seasonal allergy flareups typically occur when plants pollinate. For instance, trees are known to pollenate in the spring, grasses pollenate in the summer, and weeds pollenate in the fall. If you find that your symptoms follow a predictable pattern each year, it is likely because of seasonal allergies. Individuals can have allergic reactions to one, several, or all pollen types. Allergy symptoms to an indoor allergen such as dust can occur all year round and be worse in the winter.Understanding Sinus Problems
Sinus problems, or sinusitis, occur when the nasal passages become inflamed and swollen. This inflammation can be caused by infections (viral, bacterial or fungal), allergies or other factors such as a deviated septum.Sinus Problems Symptoms
• Facial pain or pressure• Thick, discolored nasal discharge
• Congestion/difficulty breathing through your nose
• Reduced sense of smell and taste
• Headache
• Fever
• Bad breath
• Tooth pain
When Do They Occur?
Sinus infections can occur at any time of the year and are often triggered by a viral cold or other respiratory infection. They can also be triggered by poorly controlled allergy symptoms. Chronic sinusitis, which lasts for more than 12 weeks despite treatment, can be caused by ongoing inflammation or structural issues in the nasal passages.Key Differences Between Seasonal Allergies and Sinus Problems
While there is some overlap in symptoms, there are key differences that can help you determine whether you are dealing with seasonal allergies or sinus problems.Duration of Symptoms
Seasonal allergies: Symptoms can last for as long as you are exposed to the allergen, typically several weeks or months.Sinus problems: Symptoms usually improve within 7 to 10 days if caused by an acute viral infection. If symptoms last longer than 7 to 10 days, then an antibiotic may be needed to clear the infection. Chronic sinusitis symptoms last for more than 12 weeks.
Nasal Discharge
Seasonal allergies: The discharge is usually clear and watery.Sinus problems: The discharge is often thick and discolored (can be yellow or green).
Facial Pain and Pressure
Seasonal allergies: Not a common symptom.Sinus problems: Can occur in all the facial areas where the sinus cavities appear, especially around the forehead, eyes, nose and cheeks.
Fever
Seasonal allergies: It is rare for seasonal allergies to cause a fever.Sinus problems: Possible, particularly with a bacterial sinus infection.
Itchy Eyes, Nose, or Throat
Seasonal allergies: Itchy eyes, nose and/or throat are common symptoms of allergic reactions.
Sinus problems: It is rare for a sinus problem to present with itchy (eyes, nose, throat) symptoms.
Seeking Medical Advice
If you are unsure whether you have seasonal allergies or sinus problems, it is important to consult with an ENT specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, review your medical history and may suggest tests such as allergy testing or imaging studies to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Treatment Options
For Seasonal Allergies:
Avoid allergens whenever possible. Stay indoors during high pollen counts, use air purifiers, and if possible, keep windows closed. Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, nasal antihistamine sprays, and leukotriene modifiers, and sparing use of decongestants can help manage symptoms. For severe cases, allergy immunotherapy (also known as allergy shots) can gradually reduce your sensitivity to allergens over the course of several years.For Sinus Problems:
Consistent use of nasal corticosteroids can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. Saline nasal irrigation helps to clear mucus and allergens from the nasal passages. Short-term use of decongestants can help reduce nasal congestion and ease breathing. Most sinus infections start with a virus and will last 7 to 10 days. If a bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed. In cases of chronic sinusitis caused by structural issues, surgery may be necessary to improve drainage.Understanding the differences between seasonal allergies and sinus problems is crucial for finding the right treatment and relief. By paying attention to the timing, duration and specific symptoms you experience, you can better identify the underlying cause and take appropriate action. Remember, consulting with an ENT specialist is always a wise choice if you have persistent or severe symptoms.
Take control of your health and breathe easier by knowing what you are dealing with and how to address it effectively. Your well-being is worth it!
Learn more about the high-quality care the Summa Health Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) team provides and request an appointment at summahealth.org/ent.
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