Allergies Can Trigger Sinusitis

Sinusitis and allergies are conditions that are closely related to each other. Allergic reactions often interfere with the respiratory tract in some people. Not only that, allergies can also trigger other disorders, such as sinusitis. An allergic reaction is when the body's immune system makes contact with allergens. There are a variety of reactions produced by the body, including disorders of the respiratory tract and sinuses. Sinuses are air-filled cavities in the framework of our heads located behind the forehead and cheekbones.

From allergies to sinusitis

When allergies are not handled properly, the nasal sinuses have the potential to become inflamed so that the accumulated fluid cannot come out of the sinus cavity. This condition makes sinuses a suitable place for microorganisms to multiply, causing infection or sinusitis. With allergies and inflammation due to sinusitis, more fluid accumulates in the sinus cavities and can cause symptoms, in the form of pain and pressure on the sufferer's face. Other symptoms of sinusitis that are often complained of, include nasal congestion, dizziness, and reduced ability of the nose to smell and the ability of the tongue to feel. If sinusitis is caused by bacteria, an antibiotic from a doctor will be needed to cure the infection and prevent further complications. Acute sinusitis usually occurs up to three weeks while sinusitis that occurs more than three weeks is called chronic sinusitis. Allergies can trigger these two sinusitis conditions, if not treated properly from the start. To diagnose sinusitis, the doctor will do a physical examination while asking about the symptoms that are felt. Your doctor may also use X-rays on your nose and sinus cavities or examine samples of your nasal fluid to check for bacteria.

Ways to Manage Sinusitis Due to Allergies

For cases of sinusitis due to allergies, the main cause of allergies must be addressed first. Some treatments that can be done include:

• Avoid allergen triggers. For example: dust, pollen, and mold.
• Breathe in hot steam. Inhale steam from a bowl of warm water with a towel covering your head. This inhalation will help thin the mucus in the nose, making it easier to remove and so it does not settle in the sinuses.
• Irrigate the nose with salt water solution and nasal spray. When doing so, tilt your head to the right and left, each for 10 seconds. Then, squeeze your nose and lean your head forward for 10 seconds. This will help expel nasal discharge. This method is proven to be inexpensive and safe for treating sinusitis symptoms.
• Sometimes also needed antihistamine or decongestant drugs to deal with complaints of colds, itching, and sneezing due to allergies. Treatment of acute sinusitis with antibiotics is not always necessary, especially if acute sinusitis is caused by a virus. Giving antibiotics is given if symptoms of severe sinusitis appear and in accordance with the doctor's consideration.
• To overcome the ongoing sinusitis condition, the action that can be done is surgery to remove the problematic tissue, polyps, and suctioning of fluid from the sinuses.

Allergic reactions are natural reactions that occur in the body, but do not cause additional disorders, such as sinusitis. Immediately do treatment and contact a doctor if symptoms persist. After sinusitis is treated, avoid as much as possible the cause of your allergies.