Prone to sinus infections from allergies?
You have our sympathy. Allergies can really make you miserable, and they often strike just when the weather is starting to get nice.
The typical symptoms of allergies-stuffy nose, sneezing and itchy eyes-are bad enough. Unfortunately, the nasal congestion caused by allergies can also make you more susceptible to a variety of other problems, including sinus infections.
Is it allergies-or an infection?
You can usually tell if you're having allergy problems or if you have an infection. Have you switched from just having nasal drainage and stuffiness to sinus pain and pressure? Are you running a fever? Do you have a severe sore throat?
Any of these symptoms are typically signs that the congestion has caused your sinuses to develop bacterial overgrowth and get infected. At that point, a trip to the doctor is in order.
To avoid getting sinus infections, keep the nasal congestion to a minimum. Try non-sedating Claritin OTC or its generic alternative. It's very effective for most people, and it won't make you groggy-unlike Benadryl. They also make a version for kids that won't make them sleepy (or, just as bad, bouncing-off-the-walls hyper).
Track how often you have sinus problems. If you have an occasional sinus infection or sinus pressure, your family doctor or a walk-in clinic can handle treatment. If you have chronic, year-round sinus pain and pressure, consider seeing an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
An ounce of prevention
You can help reduce your allergy symptoms without medication by taking a few preventive steps. For starters, stay indoors as much as you can during the peak pollen hours, usually between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
Make sure the house is clean and that you have as few dry plants and leaves around the house as possible. And even though it's hard on beautiful spring days, keep the windows closed so the pollen can't get inside. Finally, look on the bright side-your allergies are a great excuse to get someone else to do the yard work.
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