Allergies that cause sinusitis result from a condition called "allergic rhinitis," according to CNN Health. Allergic rhinitis affects between 10 and 30 percent of adults and almost 40 percent of children, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. A doctor may recommend different treatments for allergies that cause sinusitis, depending on medical history and the longevity and severity of the condition.
Sinusitis Definition
According to MedlinePlus, sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinus cavity resulting from bacteria or a virus. The sinus cavity swells when it is infected, which causes nasal complications such as congestion and excessive discharge.
Allergy Definition
According to MayoClinic.com, allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen or pet dander. The immune system releases chemicals to ward off the allergen, which results in sinus congestion, itchy eyes and an irritated throat.
Types
Allergic rhinitis is the most common allergic condition that causes sinusitis, according to CNN Health. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is commonly seasonal or can be a chronic, ongoing condition. The most common allergens that cause hay fever are tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, dust mites, mold spores and pet dander, according to CNN Health. Allergic rhinitis can cause severe nasal congestion.
Cause and Effect
Allergies that cause sinusitis are the result of sinus congestion. An allergen causes the sinuses to become inflamed, which traps fluid in the sinus cavity. As the mucus sits and builds up in the sinuses, it can develop bacteria that lead to a sinus infection, according to MedlinePlus.
Prevention
According to MayoClinic.com, avoidance is the most effective way to prevent allergies that cause sinusitis. Identify allergens by seeing an allergist and then avoid the allergens that cause nasal congestion. CNN Health recommends limiting your exposure to allergens by taking steps to avoid them, such as remaining indoors with your windows closed during pollen season, washing the dishes and taking garbage out daily to deter cockroaches, vacuuming and washing bedding weekly to reduce dust mites, and bathing pets weekly and keeping them out of bedrooms to reduce dander.
Treatment
MayoClinic.com states that the most common treatment for allergies that lead to sinusitis is antihistamines, decongestants and saline spray. Antihistamines are drugs used to prevent the immune system from creating histamine that produces allergy symptoms. Antihistamines may be recommended by a doctor for continual use during highly allergic seasons such as spring. Decongestants provide nasal congestion relief by shrinking the nasal cavity back to its normal size. MedlinePlus warns that the use of over-the-counter nasal decongestant sprays should only be used for a three-day period.
