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ENT Associates of Savannah ENT Associates of Savannah

Many people go years with undiagnosed allergies because they think they have recurring sinus infections. Frustratingly, they have very similar symptoms! Discover how you can tell the difference between allergies and sinus infections:

Allergies Explained

Allergies occur when your immune system contacts an allergen and responds by producing histamine (a chemical in your body). This chemical will produce symptoms such as watery eyes or a runny nose. These are signs that the body is fighting this “invader.” 

Allergies will produce the following symptoms, while a sinus infection will not: 

  • Sneezing 
  • Itchy eyes
  • Watery eyes 

The ENT Associates of Savannah doctors understand that this immune system overreaction is frustrating and often gets in the way of daily activities! We would love to help: 912-351-3030.

Sinus Infections Explained

Unlike allergies, sinus infections have nothing to do with your immune system but everything to do with your nasal passages. When your nasal passages contact a virus, they may become inflamed. Frustratingly, the inflammation causes mucus to build up which worsens the symptoms. A sinus infection will have the following symptoms, while allergies will not:

  • Pain around cheeks and eyes 
  • Yellow or green discharge from nose
  • Inability to blow your nose 
  • Bad breath
  • Tooth pain
  • Fever 

Whether you’re dealing with a chronic sinus infection or frustrating allergies, our team can help. With allergies, we can introduce immunotherapy (allergy shots) to your immune system to re-teach it to accept the allergen as harmless. With sinus infections, we make sure that what you’re dealing with is a sinus infection and not allergies. From there, we can discuss treatment options that will best help your lifestyle. 

Our doctors want to help! We are here for you to live a life where you can breathe easy. Don’t hesitate to call us today: 912-351-3030.