Sinusitis and Allergic Rhinitis : Is there a difference ?

Sinusitis and allergic rhinitis are common conditions that are often indistinguishable from the symptoms and may resemble cold. Early-stage symptoms of these illnesses are similar, and doctors sometimes have difficulty correctly diagnosing them. Differences between the two typically become apparent over time. Sinusitis is the inflammation or infection of the sinuses. They are air spaces in the skull and are situated behind the eyes, cheekbones, nose bones, and forehead. Sinusitis can be caused by bacteria or virus. Whereas allergic rhinitis is the inflammation of nasal cavity or passages. It is commonly called as hay fever. It s caused by an allergic reaction to host of outdoor and indoor allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.

The symptoms of sinusitis include nasal congestion, discolored nasal drainage, sinus pressure, headache, and fever. Viral sinusitis is more common than bacterial sinusitis. And it typically lasts 7-10 days and can be cured with supportive care. Bacterial sinusitis can occur alone or can occur after viral sinusitis. It lasts more than 10 days and may present with persistent fever. Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial sinusitis along with decongestant.

Allergic rhinitis symptoms include runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, postnasal drip, cough, and more. The symptoms can last several weeks. Fever is not present in allergic rhinitis.Typically, they don’t provide the same level of face discomfort as sinus infections. The symptoms can be relieved by antihistamine medications nasal steroid spray and nasal decongestants.

What is the difference between Sinusitis, Allergic Rhinitis and Common Cold

The symptoms of allergies, sinus infections, and colds are identical. It can be hard to distinguish between them. Usually, a common cold develops, peaks, and then gradually wanes. In addition to symptoms similar to rhinitis and sinusitis, common cold presents with cough, hoarseness, fatigue, headache, fatigue and fever. They are caused by viruses and most common cause is rhinovirus. It is a contagious disease and spreads via droplet transmission. Common colds lasts a few days and only requires supportive treatment.

When to see a doctor?

If you symptoms don’t seem to resolve after 10 days and are getting worse
If you feel the symptoms are affecting your work or your life
If you have vision changes
And if you have high fever you should see your family doctor.

If you frequently develop sinusitis and frequently develop sinusitis you may also visit your doctor for further work up. As having allergic rhinitis may be associated with other conditions such as asthma or eczema. And recurrent sinusitis maybe caused due to nasal allergies, nasal polyps, deviated septum and weakened immune system which needs to be identified to prevent recurrence and complications.

The Millenial Doctor