Allergy and Sinus Relief

Sinus infection medication prescribed are similar to those for allergy and sinus relief.

Allergy is the term used to describe our body’s response to a substance, which is not in itself harmful, but results in a reaction that causes symptoms that results in a great deal of discomfort and misery.

Allergy symptoms vary from person to person.

Mild allergies like hay fever are highly prevalent in the human population and cause symptoms such as allergic conjunctivitis, nasal congestion, itchiness of the eyes and runny nose. Allergies also play a major role in conditions such as asthma.

For some people, severe allergies to environmental substances, dietary allergens or to some drugs or medication may result in life-threatening anaphylactic reactions and potentially death.

Over 44 million Americans suffer from allergies each year and it is no wonder that many are searching for effective allergy and sinus relief solutions.

Sinus Allergy Symptoms

1.Nasal congestion. This is caused by the swelling of the mucosa within the nasal passages and sinuses.

2.Redness and itching of the conjunctiva medically known as allergic conjunctivitis.

3.Sneezing and coughing. These are symptoms of allergic rhinitis caused by the inhalation of airborne allergens. Copious amounts of mucus are produced which leads to increased post nasal drip down the nasopharynx irritating the throat.

4.Puffy eyes. This is an indication of sinus infection in the ethmoid sinuses.

5.Feeling of grogginess, losing balance and bumping into things. These symptoms will be more pronounced when you are walking in a crowded area. You will find difficulty in focusing and maintaining your balance.

6.Eustachian Tube Dysfunction. The Eustachian tube (or auditory tube) is a tube that links the nasopharynx to the middle ear. At times, this tube can become inflamed and produces sticky mucus resulting in the ears being clogged up.

Another reason for Eustachian tube dysfunction is due to the inflammation of the mucosa which causes the production of glue-like mucus that can block the opening of this tube.

Causes of Sinus Allergy

Many airborne substances which we inhale through nose can cause sinus allergies. For example, pollens, which are particles released by flowering plants are commonly known to cause allergies. Other inhaled allergens that can cause sinus inflammation are pet dander, dust in the home and toxic black mold.

However, studies have found that food allergy is one of the greatest causes of sinus allergy. Certain kinds of food tend to cause inflammation resulting in more mucus to be produced within our body.

Dairy products derived from cow’s milk are the most mucus-forming of all. Milk, including skim milk, butter, cheese, cream, etc. belong to this category. Soy beans and soy-derived products are the most mucus-forming of all plant foods.

Eggs are known to have a high mucus-forming index. According to a famous ENT specialist, it is imperative to avoid food such as chicken and ducks if you constantly have sinus infection.

Allergy and Sinus Relief that works

Decongestants: These medicines are available as tablet, syrup or nasal spray. They help you in unblocking the openings of the sinuses and provide relief from the temporary symptoms.

However you should always read the supplementary notes carefully for contraindications and consult your doctor before using any. NASONEX® and RHINOCORT AQUA® are also highly recommended for use by ENT specialists for sinus infection treatment because they are very effective. It contains anti-inflammatory corticosteroids. For best results, you have to use it for a period of between 2-4 weeks.

Nasal decongestants (sprays) are good sinus infection treatment remedies but they should be used for only 2-3 days. Remember, an overdose can cause a rebound.
This means that with continued use more than the recommended dose, the symptoms become aggravated and you become worse off.

An overuse of this drug can cause problems like high blood pressure, anxiety and insomnia. It is always good advice to consult the doctor before using any of these medicines.

Antihistamines: Claritin® (loratadine), Chlor-Trimeton® (chlorpheniramine), Benadryl® (diphenhydramine). These are the names of certain types of antihistamines. Antihistamines are the drugs used for allergy and sinus relief.

These are to counter the effects of histamine, the natural chemical produced by your body to fight allergy.

It is also available in the form of tablets and syrup and can reduce the symptoms of sneezing, itchy eyes and nose, and mucus production.

Some newer classes of prescription antihistamines that do not cause drowsiness include: Allergra® (fexofenadine), Clarinex® (desloratadine) and Zyrtec® (cetirizine).

Besides the above medication, there are also proven home remedies for allergy and sinus relief.