Springtime Allergies or Sinus Infections? Know the Difference and When to Get Help

With spring’s arrival, families embrace warm weather, blooming flowers, and more outdoor time. But for many, this season also brings sneezing, congestion, and watery eyes. Is it springtime allergies, or is it a sinus infection? Knowing the difference can help you get the right treatment and feel better faster.

What Are Springtime Allergies?

Springtime allergies, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever, happen when your immune system overreacts to pollen in the air. Trees like oak and pecan release high levels of pollen during this season, triggering allergy symptoms.

Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Coughing or throat irritation
• Fatigue due to poor sleep

Allergies can last for weeks or even months as long as you’re exposed to pollen. They’re not contagious and don’t come with a fever. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), about 7.8% of adults in the U.S. suffer from hay fever each year.

What Triggers Spring Allergies?

In Texas, the main culprits behind spring allergies are tree pollen, mold spores, and grass pollen. These allergens can travel through the air for miles, making it difficult to avoid exposure. Windy days tend to be worse because they spread pollen more easily, while rain can temporarily wash allergens away.

Common allergy triggers include:

• Tree pollen – Oak, ash, and pecan trees are common in Texas and produce significant amounts of pollen.
• Grass pollen – Bermuda, rye, and Timothy grasses can contribute to allergy symptoms.
• Mold spores – High humidity and spring rains encourage mold growth, affecting both indoor and outdoor environments. 

If you or your child experience symptoms around the same time every year, seasonal allergies are likely to blame.

What Is a Sinus Infection?

A sinus infection, or sinusitis, happens when the sinuses become inflamed and swollen, often due to a viral or bacterial infection. Unlike allergies, sinus infections can cause thick nasal discharge and facial pain.

Symptoms of a sinus infection include:

• Nasal congestion
• Facial pain or pressure, especially around the forehead and cheeks
• Thick, yellow or green mucus
• Headache
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Bad breath (caused by mucus buildup)

Most sinus infections are viral, meaning antibiotics won’t help. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), viral sinus infections typically resolve on their own without the need for antibiotics. However, bacterial sinus infections may require medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

What Causes a Sinus Infection?

Sinus infections can develop from:

• A cold or flu virus – The most common cause of acute sinus infections.
• Bacteria – In some cases, bacteria can cause a more severe sinus infection.
• Allergies – Ongoing nasal inflammation from allergies can block the sinuses, making infections more likely.
• Nasal polyps – These small growths inside the nose can obstruct airflow and lead to chronic sinus infections.

How to Tell the Difference

Because allergies and sinus infections share similar symptoms, it can be tricky to know which one you’re dealing with. Here’s how to tell them apart:

• Itchiness – Allergies frequently cause itching due to histamine release, while sinus infections typically do not. 
• Fever – Bacterial sinus infections can cause fever, but viral ones may not. Allergies do not cause fever. 
• Duration – Allergy symptoms last as long as you’re exposed to allergens, while an acute sinus infection typically lasts up to 4 weeks. Chronic sinusitis is diagnosed when symptoms last 12 weeks or longer.

The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that knowing these differences is key to getting the right treatment.

When to Seek Medical Help

While many cases of allergies and sinus infections can be managed at home, there are times when medical attention is necessary. Seek help if:

• Symptoms last more than 10 days without improvement, which may indicate a bacterial infection.
• Severe facial pain, swelling around the eyes, or worsening symptoms occur.
• A high fever (above 102°F) develops, suggesting a more serious infection.
• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath is present.
• Over-the-counter allergy medications provide little to no relief.

Treatment Options

For Allergies:

• Limit pollen exposure by staying indoors during peak pollen times (morning and evening).
• Use a HEPA air purifier to reduce allergens at home.
• Rinse your nasal passages with saline spray to help remove allergens and ease nasal congestion. ​
• Take antihistamines or nasal steroids as recommended by your doctor.

For Sinus Infections:

• Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.
• Use a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist.
• Apply warm compresses to relieve facial pain.
• If symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections.

How to Prevent Allergies and Sinus Infections

Preventing allergies and sinus infections can help keep your family healthy throughout the season. Here are some tips:

• Keep windows closed to prevent pollen from entering your home.
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors.
• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce allergens indoors.
• Drink plenty of water to keep nasal passages hydrated and prevent mucus buildup.
• Wash your hands frequently to reduce the spread of viruses that can lead to sinus infections.

Stay Healthy This Spring

Do not let allergies or sinus infections ruin your springtime fun. By recognizing the symptoms of springtime allergies and sinus infections and knowing when to seek medical care, you can breathe easier and enjoy the season. If your symptoms are severe or not improving, visit Physicians Premier for expert care. Our team is here to help you feel better, faster.

Sources:

“Allergy Statistics,” American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, https://www.aaaai.org/about/news/for-media/allergy-statistics
“Springtime allergens in Central Texas,” Austin Regional Clinic, https://www.austinregionalclinic.com/blogs/article/springtime-allergens-in-central-texas
“Sinus Infection,” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17701-sinusitis
“Sinus Infection Basics,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/sinus-infection/about/
“Mayo Clinic Q and A: Is it allergies or a sinus infection?” Mayo Clinic, https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-is-it-allergies-or-a-sinus-infection/
“Sinusitis,” American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/sinusitis