When Sinusitis Won’t Go Away: Could You Have an Underlying Allergy?

If you’ve been dealing with persistent sinus infections, pressure, and congestion that won’t go away, allergies could be playing a bigger role than you think. Chronic sinusitis (lasting 12 weeks or more) is often linked to underlying allergies, which cause ongoing inflammation in the sinuses. Let’s explore how allergies contribute to sinusitis and what you can do to find lasting relief.

How Allergies Contribute to Chronic Sinusitis

Allergic reactions can lead to persistent nasal and sinus inflammation, making it harder for mucus to drain properly. This creates the perfect environment for bacterial or fungal infections. Here’s how it happens: ✔️ Allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold) trigger nasal swelling.
✔️ Swelling blocks sinus drainage, leading to mucus buildup.
✔️ Stagnant mucus increases the risk of bacterial growth and infection.
✔️ Inflammation persists, making sinusitis a recurring problem.

Signs That Your Sinusitis May Be Allergy-Related

If you have chronic sinus issues, look for these clues that allergies may be the root cause:

• Sinus congestion lasts for months and doesn’t fully resolve with antibiotics.
• You also have sneezing, itchy eyes, or postnasal drip.
• Symptoms worsen in specific seasons (spring, fall) or around triggers (pets, dust).
• Nasal polyps are present, which are common in allergic individuals.
• You don’t have a fever, which is more typical of bacterial sinusitis.

Diagnosing Allergy-Related Sinusitis

If you suspect allergies are driving your sinus problems, your doctor may recommend:

• Allergy testing (skin or blood tests) to identify triggers.
• Nasal endoscopy to check for inflammation or polyps.
• CT scan of the sinuses if structural issues are suspected.
• Sinus culture in cases of recurrent infections.

Treatment Options for Allergy-Related Sinusitis

✔️ Allergy management – Avoid triggers and use antihistamines or allergy shots.
✔️ Nasal steroid sprays (Flonase, Nasonex) – Reduce inflammation and swelling.
✔️ Saline rinses – Flush out allergens and mucus buildup.
✔️ Leukotriene inhibitors (Singulair) – Help control allergic inflammation.
✔️ Biologics (Dupixent, Xolair) – For severe nasal polyps or allergy-driven sinusitis.
✔️ Sinus surgery (in some cases) – If severe inflammation or polyps block sinus drainage.

FAQ: Allergies and Chronic Sinusitis

Q: Can allergies cause sinus infections?
A: Yes! Allergies create inflammation that blocks drainage, leading to infections.

Q: How do I know if I have allergies or just chronic sinus infections?
A: Allergy symptoms tend to last months and include itching, sneezing, and congestion, while bacterial sinus infections typically cause fever, facial pain, and thick nasal discharge.

Q: Will treating my allergies help my sinusitis?
A: Yes! Reducing allergy-driven inflammation can prevent recurrent sinus infections.

A Personal Story

One of my patients, Mark, had sinus infections every few months for years. After allergy testing, we discovered he had grass, tree, and weed allergies. Once he started allergy immunotherapy and daily nasal rinses, his sinus infections became far less frequent—no more constant antibiotics!

If your sinusitis won’t go away, an underlying allergy could be the missing piece of the puzzle. Getting tested and treating the root cause can lead to long-term relief!

 

What are you waiting for?  If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!

Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now!  Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!

Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.

Did you know? Dr. Wendt wrote the book on allergies.  Buy it NOW!

Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.

DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.