Having colds are usually normal, but should be paid attention to nonetheless. No one wants to be constantly sniffing, coughing, and sneezing while at work or even at home. If you have a rather bad case of colds, even sleeping can be a challenge due to stuffed nose. That is why you need to drink lots of water, eat foods rich in vitamin C, and have lots of rest to help you get relief from colds.
However, there are some instances wherein you initially thought that you have colds, where in fact it is already an allergic reaction. For one thing, some symptoms of colds such as constant sneezing and runny nose are similar to that of an allergic reaction. In such cases, you may have to consult an allergist and be given medications to manage your allergies.
What if it is more than just colds?
In some cases, common symptoms of colds such as having the sniffles and runny nose may not be due to a virus. Rather, it may be due to allergic triggers that should be consulted to an allergist specialist immediately. Worse, these allergic reactions can lead to sinusitis. You may have already heard about sinusitis, which is often associated with common colds.
However, sinusitis is usually due to allergies as well as irritation due to toxic airborne substances and viral infections. This condition occurs when the mucous membranes become inflamed, making breathing difficult. Likewise, your eyes may feel tender, swollen, and teary-eyed as a result of this condition.
Sinusitis can either be acute and chronic. The former is often temporary and responds to antihistamine, decongestants, and antibiotics. The latter, on the other hand, lasts for more than three months. An allergy doctor may recommend certain medications but only do much to alleviate the symptoms. Since it’s chronic, you may have to turn to an allergist doctor to help manage this condition.
Common symptoms of sinusitis
As mentioned, symptoms of sinusitis are mostly similar to that of common colds such as the runny nose, sore throat, and sneezing. However, this condition also has other symptoms which can be very uncomfortable especially those with chronic sinusitis. Among symptoms of chronic sinusitis include:
- Nasal discharge (different to simple mucous)
- Post-nasal drainage
- A feeling of swelling and pain around the eye, forehead, cheeks, and nasal area
- Loss of sense of smell and taste
- Ear pain
- Fatigue
- Bad breath
- Pain in the upper jaw and teeth area
When should you call a doctor?
Chronic sinusitis occurs after several instances of acute sinusitis. While fever may also occur in chronic sinusitis, it can be more common in acute sinusitis. However, you have to see an allergy specialist if:
- You had cases of sinusitis a lot of times
- Medications do not respond well to the condition
- Symptoms of sinusitis as mentioned above have already been lingering for more than a week
- Presence of swollen eye and forehead area, stiff neck, severe headache, or fever
You are also at high risk of having chronic sinusitis if you have one or more of the following:
- Asthma/allergies
- Dental infection
- Nasal polyps
- Constant exposure to air pollution
- Sensitivity to aspirin or other types of medications
If left untreated, it can also lead to further complications such as vision problems or even permanent blindness. Untreated sinusitis can also lead to inflammation and infections as well as bone or skin infections. To avoid your condition from getting worse, it is best to visit an allergy clinic to help you manage your sinusitis.
How to avoid sinusitis
Treatment for sinusitis depends on the type of condition and how long it has lasted. On one hand, acute sinusitis won’t last that long. However, it can be very uncomfortable that is why over-the-counter medicines and other natural remedies can be taken to alleviate the condition. The following tips can also help lessen the risk of having chronic sinusitis.
- As much as possible, do not come into contact with those with colds and cough. If you have to, wash your hands with warm soap and water especially before handling babies and food.
- Avoid people who smoke. Wear a face mask when going outside like commuting.
- Add moisture into your home by using a humidifier. Make sure to consult the best allergist in Manassas VA to help you treat your condition.