Can Allergies Cause Sinus Infections?
Yes, allergies may lead to sinus infections. When your body encounters an allergen, such as pollen or dust mites, your immune system releases histamine.2 Histamine then causes allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, itchy nose and throat and sinus congestion.
Allergies and sinus infections are both common health conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and headache.1 However, there are some important differences too, especially when it comes to causes and treatments.
Sinus Infection vs Allergies
Understanding the connection between these two conditions can help you find the right treatments to keep you feeling your best.
Sinus Infection Symptoms and Causes
Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, is inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located behind the forehead, nose, and cheekbones. Sinus infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.1 Symptoms of a sinus infection include1,3:
Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down your throat)
Runny nose with thick yellow or green mucus
Stuffy nose
Facial pressure (particularly around your nose, eyes and forehead). This might get worse when you move your head around or bend over
Pressure or pain in your teeth
Ear pressure or pain
Fever
Bad breath (halitosis) or a bad taste in your mouth
Headache
Tiredness
If you think you may be experiencing a sinus infection talk to your healthcare provider. They may prescribe treatments like antibiotics or steroid sprays depending on the cause of the infection.3
Allergies Symptoms and Causes
Allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to a foreign substance, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Symptoms of allergies can include2,4:
Sneezing
Itchy nose, throat, and eyes (eyes may also be watery)
Runny nose
Nasal stuffiness (congestion)
Postnasal drip
Sinus pressure
Allergy medications, like ZYRTEC®, can help relieve your worst allergy symptoms, whether they’re from seasonal or year-round allergies. If you tend to suffer from nasal stuffiness (congestion) or sinus pressure from your allergies, ZYRTEC-D® may be an option for you. Learn more about the ZYRTEC® family of products.
The Link Between Allergies and Sinus Infections
Allergies may increase the risk of developing sinus infections. When you have an allergy to substances such as pollen, mold, dust or pet dander, your nasal and sinus passages work to flush out these particles if they are inhaled. This effort leads to inflammation and swelling in the nasal and sinus passages. As a result, mucus becomes trapped in the swollen sinuses, making it easier for bacteria and viruses to enter and potentially cause an infection.1,3
Tips to Manage your Allergies
By taking steps to manage your allergies, you can help reduce the amount of swelling and inflammation in your nasal passages.2,5,6
Know your triggers. Know what sets off your symptoms and avoid these allergens as much as possible. Learn about the different allergy triggers in our Allergy Guide.
Get relief indoors. Use air purifiers and HEPA filters to remove allergens from the air. Turn on your air conditioner instead of opening the window during times of peak pollen.
Clean regularly. Regularly vacuum rugs and carpets and wash bedding and curtains to help remove dust, dander, pollen, and other allergens.
Change your clothes. Pollen and other allergens can stick to your clothes and hair so take a shower and change your clothes if you notice your symptoms are starting to flare.
Combine any of the above home remedies with OTC options to manage allergies: Try a nasal saline rinse to flush out allergens and mucus and try taking allergy medications, such as antihistamines or decongestants. ZYRTEC® is a trusted and safe over-the-counter option that can help relieve your worst allergy symptoms.
When to See a Medical Professional
It’s important to see a doctor if you have symptoms of a sinus infection or allergies that do not improve with home treatment. Your doctor can diagnose the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best treatment for you.
Explore ZYRTEC® products for your allergy needs
Untreated allergies may lead to sinus infection. Get allergy relief from ZYRTEC®, the #1 Allergist recommended brand among OTC oral antihistamines. Shop our collection of products here.
FAQ About Sinus Infections and Allergies:
Can Taking ZYRTEC® every day help prevent sinus infections?
ZYRTEC® is an antihistamine that can help relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. While ZYRTEC® effectively relives allergy symptoms, it does not directly prevent sinus infections.
Is it safe to take ZYRTEC® every day?
Yes, ZYRTEC® works fast to provide tough allergy relief and stays strong day after day. Follow the instructions on the product packaging and our dosage chart.
Can dust cause sinus infections?
Dust can be an allergen that triggers allergic reactions, which can potentially lead to sinusitis. When dust particles enter the nasal passages, they can cause inflammation and swelling, resulting in mucus buildup and a possible increased risk of sinus infection.1 Limit your exposure to dust and take steps to relive your allergy symptoms with ZYRTEC®. Learn more about dust and find out if you might be allergic to dust in our helpful guide.
Can pollen cause sinus infections?
When pollen is released into the air during certain seasons, it can trigger allergic reactions. This can lead to inflammation, mucus production, and a possible increased risk of sinus infections.1 Limit your exposure to pollen and take steps to relive your allergy symptoms with ZYRTEC®. Learn more about pollen, and see if you might have a pollen allergy with our helpful guide.
References
https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/sinus-infection/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8610-allergies
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17701-sinusitis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8622-allergic-rhinitis-hay-fever
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351503
https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/seasonal-allergies/
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