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The Inside Scoop on Sinuses, Congestion, and Allergies

Updated February 10, 2023

Dr. Manan Shah, MD, ENT

Wyndly co-founder and Chief Medical OfficerDedicated to giving everyone incredible care

Updated February 10, 2023

Table of Contents

When you suffer from congested sinuses, it impacts how you feel, how you sleep, and even how you breathe. It can make your head ache and your sinuses feel like they’re under pressure. And while some cases of sinus congestion can be mild, others become so uncomfortable that they impact your day-to-day functioning.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. Many congestion sufferers can find relief once they understand what causes sinus congestion and how it is being triggered.

What Are the Sinuses?

Sinuses are air-filled spaces in your head that serve multiple purposes. These hollow cavities are positioned on both sides of your nose and inside your forehead. They’re often lined with mucus.

Your sinus cavities perform several important functions. They:

Reduce the weight of your skull
Regulate your brain’s temperature
Produce mucus to moisten the nose and filter air
Help you smell
Absorb shock from head injuries
Produce local antibodies to fight viruses in your nose
Protect the brain from damage
Help children’s faces grow properly

Acute Sinusitis Symptoms

If you’ve ever been diagnosed with acute sinusitis (also known as sinus inflammation), you already understand how uncomfortable it is when your sinuses don’t work properly. At its best, it’s mildly irritating. At its worst, it can be excruciating.

Sinus infection symptoms are similar to those of a bad cold. You may experience:

Stuffy nose
Facial pain
Sinus pressure
Headache
Post-nasal drip
Decreased or loss of smell
Excessive throat clearing

People usually miss four to five days of work with acute sinusitis. But for some, it becomes even worse with chronic sinusitis, sinus infections that occur over and over again.

Allergies and the Sinuses

Sometimes, congested sinuses are caused by allergies. Allergic reactions result when your body inappropriately identifies harmless substances, or allergens, such as pollen, dust, mold, and animal dander, as dangerous. Your immune system starts an allergic response that ends in the inflammation of the lining of the sinuses and nasal passageways.

This swelling interferes with the normal flow and clearing of mucus from your nose and sinuses and can cause sinusitis. Sinusitis makes it hard to breathe and can impact your daily functioning.

Treating Sinus Congestion

Depending on what’s causing your sinus congestion, you can treat its symptoms in various ways. If it’s related to the common cold, decongestants may offer you some relief. Those who believe they may have a sinus infection should seek professional medical advice, as they may need prescription medication.

For nasal congestion caused by allergies, antihistamines can temporarily relieve symptoms. If you don’t find relief or your symptoms remain severe, talk to an allergy specialist. Immunotherapy, such as allergy drops, is a long-term solution for allergy relief.

Are You Ready to Say Goodbye to Sinus Congestion for Good?

If your sinus congestion is caused by allergies, it’s time to end your suffering. At Wyndly, our team of allergy doctors provides you with the support and assistance you need to find long-term allergy relief. Get started with lifelong allergy relief today by taking our easy 2-minute online assessment!