As the seasons change, many people experience nasal congestion, headaches, and runny noses. These symptoms often raise the question: Are they fall allergies or sinus infections? Since both conditions share overlapping symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference. Knowing what causes each and recognizing the warning signs can help you determine the best treatment and when to seek medical care.
If you’re feeling under the weather and struggling from symptoms like congestion, a runny nose, and sinus pain, walk into AFC Urgent Care Attleboro. Our walk-in clinic offers rapid same-day care for symptoms of seasonal allergies and cases of sinus infections. Simply walk into the clinic, or save your spot in advance using the button below.
What Do Fall Allergies Stem From?
Fall allergies are typically triggered by environmental allergens that become more prominent during the season. The most common culprit is ragweed pollen, which peaks in late summer and early fall. Other triggers include mold spores from damp leaves, dust mites, and pet dander.
Symptoms of fall allergies often include:
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Scratchy throat
- Mild fatigue
These symptoms usually appear suddenly and continue as long as you are exposed to allergens. Unlike infections, allergies do not cause fever or thick nasal discharge.
What Do Sinus Infections Stem From?
A sinus infection (sinusitis) occurs when the sinuses (air-filled spaces in the skull) become inflamed and blocked. A viral infection usually triggers this blockage, but it can also be caused by bacteria or, less commonly, fungi. Swelling prevents mucus from draining properly, leading to pain and pressure in the sinuses.
Common sinus infection symptoms include:
- Facial pressure or pain (around the forehead, cheeks, or eyes)
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Headaches
- Postnasal drip that worsens at night
- Fever (in some cases)
- Cough caused by drainage down the throat
How Can You Tell the Difference?
The key differences between allergies and sinus infections are in the duration and type of symptoms:
- Allergies are triggered by exposure to allergens and last for weeks or months as long as the allergen is present. They are often accompanied by itchy eyes and sneezing.
- Sinus infections typically develop after a cold or viral illness and last about 7 - 10 days. They are more likely to cause fever, facial pain, and thick nasal discharge.
- Itchy, watery eyes indicate allergies, while fever and facial tenderness strongly suggest a sinus infection.
Walk Into AFC Attleboro for Same-Day Illness Treatment
Distinguishing between fall allergies and sinus infections can be challenging since they share similar symptoms, but paying attention to triggers, duration, and the type of discomfort can help. While allergies are usually manageable with medication and lifestyle adjustments, sinus infections can become serious if untreated. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a sinus infection or seasonal allergies, early intervention can help prevent severe symptoms.
At AFC Urgent Care Attleboro, our walk-in clinic is available 7 days a week to provide same-day care for illnesses and seasonal allergies! Our clinic accepts walk-ins daily, and we work with most medical insurance plans. To learn more, give us a call at (774) 254-9500 to speak with a member of our team.
