If you suffer from sinusitis or allergies, you know how frustrating it can be to deal with sinus issues that never seem to go away. But with a proper diagnosis from your ear nose and throat doctor, you’ll be on your way to being symptom-free. If you want to be able to differentiate between these two common conditions on your own, the experts at Ear Nose & Throat Specialties PC in Lincoln, NE, share three main differences.

3 Differences Between Sinusitis and Sinus Issues From Allergies

1. Mucus Discharge

Mucus discharge is a common symptom in both allergies and sinusitis. But the type of mucus is often used as an indicator of your specific sinus issue.

Allergies tend to produce clear nasal discharge, while sufferers of sinusitis typically have yellow or green mucus, which can indicate an infection. If you experience anything besides clear nasal discharge, make an appointment with your nasal doctor to be tested for sinusitis.

2. Bad Breath

Sometimes people with allergies experience bad breath from post nasal drip, but this is usually resolved with regular nasal irrigation. However, if your bad breath worsens or becomes long lasting even after nasal irrigation, it might indicate a more serious problem like sinusitis.

When sinusitis occurs, the bacteria in your mucus causes inflammation, and this bacteria can build up, causing bad odor. If you’re experiencing chronic bad breath accompanied by other sinus issues, your ear nose and throat doctor will be able to determine exactly what you’re suffering from.

3. Tooth Pain

When it comes to allergies, most people don’t experience tooth pain. However, tooth pain is a red flag for sinusitis. Infection from sinusitis creates pressure, which then makes the maxillary sinuses inflamed.

The maxillary sinuses are located near your cheekbones, so the inflammation sometimes manifests as tooth or mouth pain. If your sinus issues are paired with tooth pain, be sure to get an opinion from an ear nose and throat doctor.

If you’re tired of your sinus issues dragging you down, reach out to a qualified ear nose and throat doctor at Ear Nose & Throat Specialties PC. Since 1991, they have provided comprehensive ENT services to residents in the Lincoln, NE, area. For more information, visit their website and view their services, or give them a call at (402) 488-5600.