Sinus Allergy

What is a Sinus Allergy?

A Sinus allergy, also known as allergic sinusitis, is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses caused by an allergen that is breathed in. When these substances come in contact with the tissue of the respiratory system, an allergic reaction with inflammation and tightening of the air passages results. In an attempt to clear out the contaminants, the body releases mucus resulting in a runny nose.

Causes of a Sinus Allergy

Inflammation of the mucosal tissue within the respiratory system is caused by a number of allergens:

Pollen

Dust

Pet dander

Aerosol chemicals such as those in perfume and other household products

Symptoms of a Sinus Allergy

Difficulty breathing

Congestion

Sneezing

Runny nose

Itchy, watery eyes

Diagnosing a Sinus Allergy

Many of the symptoms can be mixed up with a regular cold, but if you notice them recurring often after they have subsided, there is a good chance that it is an allergy. An otolaryngologist can analyze the symptoms and provide a concrete diagnosis. An allergy test may be administered to identify the particular cause of your sinus allergy.

Treatment for a Sinus Allergy

Once the allergen responsible for your sinus allergy has been identified, it is best to limit exposure to it. Antihistamines can alleviate immediate symptoms and decongestants can help you breathe better.

The best treatment for a sinus allergy, or allergic sinusitis, is to avoid the allergen that is causing the reaction. Antihistamines and other drugs can provide relief for a reaction that has already occurred.

Symptoms of a Sinus Allergy

Difficulty breathing

Congestion

Sneezing

Runny nose

Itchy, watery eyes

Natural Treatment of Sinus Allergy

Staying hydrated is important to the natural treatment of a sinus allergy. With adequate liquid intake your body can naturally flush away the contaminants through the production of mucus. Drinking juice like freshly squeezed orange juice can provide additional benefits through vitamins like vitamin C, which may help strengthen your body’s defenses.

Another treatment is to flush out your nasal passages manually with a sterile saline solution using a nasal irrigation device such as a neti pot. Tilt your head a little to the side and pour the solution in one nostril, allowing it to exit from the other.

Nebulization with a saline solution can also help in flushing out the allergens that caused the reaction by depositing the solution deep inside your respiratory passages.