The Link Between Allergies and Sinusitis in
San Antonio’s Medical Center Area
Sinus symptoms, such as frequent sneezing, persistent nasal congestion, a runny nose, postnasal drip, sinus pain and pressure, and headaches, can be frustrating to deal with, especially for residents of San Antonio’s Medical Center Area, where environmental allergens are common throughout the year. If you’re someone who has allergies or sinusitis, then you know how difficult it is to find relief.
While allergies and sinusitis are virtually the same for untrained people and are definitely linked, they are distinct conditions.
Let’s go over the basics of allergies and sinusitis, how allergies can potentially lead to sinusitis, and locally available treatments at San Antonio Breathe Free in San Antonio’s Medical Center Area.
What Are Allergies?
Allergies are an overreaction to seemingly harmless substances (known as allergens), triggering the immune system to release a chemical called histamine. When histamine is produced, it can trigger inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages. This leads to mucus buildup. More than the feeling of stuffiness, congestion, and breathing difficulties, a buildup of mucus can make the person more susceptible to developing a sinus infection.
What Is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is an infection usually caused by either a virus or bacteria. The sinuses are hollow, air-filled cavities located behind the nose, eyes, and cheeks. When they become swollen and inflamed, mucus is trapped, causing a buildup. When the sinuses become blocked, it creates an ideal environment for germs, viruses, and bacteria to thrive and likely cause an infection.
Can Allergies Contribute to Sinusitis?
✔️ Yes, allergies can sometimes contribute to the development of sinusitis in San Antonio’s Medical Center Area. However, contrary to popular belief, allergies don’t weaken the immune system, and it’s not here that the connection between allergies and sinusitis lies.
⭕ Allergies can trigger sinusitis in some people due to the irritation and inflammation of the sinus passages, as a result of an allergic reaction to pollen or other airborne allergens and irritants.
⭕ When the body inhales or comes into contact with allergens like pollen, dust, mold, or pet dander, the body tries to flush them out, resulting in irritation, swelling, and inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses. This traps mucus, creating an environment in which germs, viruses, and bacteria may increase the risk of sinus infections..
⭕ Allergies and sinusitis can aggravate each other’s symptoms, sometimes leading to overlapping and persistent symptoms.
Allergy and Sinus Treatment Options for Patients in San Antonio
Treating sinusitis caused or made worse by allergic reactions means an approach to managing the allergy symptoms and treating the infection at the same time.
💊 Medication treatment
- Antihistamines can block the body’s histamine-producing response to allergens.
- Antibiotics may be prescribed for sinus infections due to bacteria.
- Nasal corticosteroids can reduce the inflammation of the nasal passages and mucus buildup.
- Saline nasal sprays can moisturize irritated sinuses and may potentially flush out allergens.
⚠️Always consult with a pharmacist or your doctor before starting any new medication.
🏥 In-office treatment
For patients in San Antonio, Live Oak, and nearby communities who don’t respond well to medications alone, San Antonio Breathe Free offers in-office treatment options:
- Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) or allergy drops are FDA-approved for some types of allergens in the United States (e.g., grass, ragweed, and dust mites) and may help some patients build tolerance to their allergens over time. However, many allergy drops prescribed in ENT clinics in the country are used off-label and must be discussed with a healthcare provider to weigh potential benefits and risks.
- Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small balloon catheter to open blocked sinus passages. This may help improve mucus flow and airflow in some patients.
- Septoplasty may be recommended by your care provider if it is determined that a deviated septum contributes to chronic sinus issues. The procedure straightens the nasal septum, which can reduce nasal obstruction and improve airflow.
⚠️ A consultation with your ENT care provider can help determine if in-office treatments are appropriate for your condition.
Allergy and Sinus Care at San Antonio Breathe Free
Our team at San Antonio Breathe Free, led by our board-certified ENT physicians, works closely with our patients in San Antonio, Live Oak, and San Antonio’s Medical Center Area in Northwest San Antonio to evaluate possible contributing factors to allergies and sinus infections.
