Is your hay fever actually sinusitis?
Welcome to your sinuses. These interconnected spaces in the bones of the face are often forgotten - except when they become inflamed and cause us pain! People with chronic hay fever experiencing certain symptoms may find they have sinusitis. Does this sound like you? Read on.
Are allergies and sinusitis related?
Our sinuses are located between and behind the eyes, in the forehead, around and behind the nose and in the cheeks. They have a mucus lining, which is there to trap dirt and other irritants before they are inhaled. However, allergies can inflame this lining, making it difficult to clear out our sinuses and creating the perfect conditions for bacteria to flourish.
Could I have sinusitis?
As it is with some health conditions, one can lead to another. If you have hay fever which was poorly controlled, you may have developed rhinitis, which is an inflammation of the nasal mucus membranes. If this is then left untreated, sinusitis can develop.
RealTalk with Sarah Ding
Pharmacist at TerryWhite Chemmart Coffs Harbour, NSW
What are the symptoms?
Talk to your Pharmacist if you are experiencing:
- Green or yellow mucus from the nose or dripping down the throat
- Blocked nose
- Facial pain and pressure, especially when leaning forward
- Headache and toothache
- Loss of taste and smell
- Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Coughing
- Fever
How is sinusitis treated?
Your GP or Pharmacist may discuss the following options with you.
- Paracetamol and warm compresses - to relieve pain
- Steam inhalations and saline wash – to help thin out and drain mucus
- Anti inflammatories – to help with the inflamed mucus lining
- Prescribed oral antibiotics or steroids - if symptoms persist
They may also mention:
- Using cool or warm packs – to help soothe the aching sensation
- Resting – to help your body recover
- Quitting smoking/avoiding passive smoking – to limit its potential as an irritant
Visit your GP if you frequently have sinusitis, or experience facial swelling, stiffness in the neck, bleeding from the nose, changes in your vision or if symptoms persist.