Runny Nose
COLD & FLU RELIEF
sinus infection vs. allergies: how to
tell the difference
The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
Headache, sinus pressure, a stuffy nose, watery eyes… whether it’s allergies or a sinus infection, one thing’s for sure: They both can make you feel miserable. Learn more about the differences between these unpleasant symptoms and how to get fast relief.
allergies vs. sinus infection symptoms
Compare the symptoms in this chart to help determine whether you have allergies or a sinus infection.
what causes allergies?
Allergies are very common and are usually triggered at certain times of the year when pollen, ragweed or mold levels are high. You can also be exposed to indoor allergens like pet dander and dust mites year-round.
When you have an allergic reaction, your immune system responds by releasing histamine. Histamine causes your nasal passages to swell and create mucus to flush out the allergens. All that mucus can lead to congestion, a runny nose, and other cold-like symptoms.
common allergy symptoms
If you suffer from allergies, you probably have some of these common symptoms:
Sneezing
Itchy Eyes
Slight Headaches
what causes a sinus infection?
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, can develop from allergies or a cold. It happens when the nasal passages become so inflamed that mucus doesn’t drain properly. Sometimes, bacteria can cause sinusitis as well. If that’s the case, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic.
common sinus infection symptoms
If you think your cold or allergies have turned into a sinus infection, then you may have:
Thick, yellow or green mucus
Headaches
Pressure around your forehead, eyes and cheeks
Slight fever
Bad breath (caused by postnasal drip in your throat)
how to manage allergies or sinus infections
Allergy and sinus infection symptoms can both be addressed with over-the-counter medications and home remedies. Follow these tips to start relieving your symptoms:
Drink fluids
Drinking water, warm tea or broth will help keep your body hydrated and loosen up mucus.
Use a nasal spray
Afrin® No Drip Allergy Sinus Pump Mist can help relieve sinus pressure instantly by reducing swelling in inflamed nasal passages.
Rinse your sinuses
Rinsing your nasal passages with a saline solution can help flush out mucus and allergens from your nose.
Avoid allergens when possible
If you have seasonal allergies, stay indoors, and keep windows closed when pollen is high.
Take over the counter meds to relieve allergy symptoms
Alka-Seltzer Plus® Sinus Congestion & Pain Maximum Strength PowerMax® Gels and Alka-Seltzer Plus® Sinus Congestion & Pain Maximum Strength PowerFast Fizz™ Berry Flavor Effervescent Tablets can help relieve sinus pressure and congestion caused by allergies or a sinus infection for up to seven days. It contains an antihistamine that blocks your body’s histamine-producing response to allergens, as well as a decongestant to relieve nasal congestion.
