Seasonal allergies can make you feel miserable, with sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes that seem to never end. But sometimes, allergies can do more than cause discomfort. In some cases, they can set the stage for a sinus infection. Knowing the difference between ongoing allergies and a developing sinus infection is key to getting the right treatment and finding relief. In this blog, we’ll explore how to identify when allergies are turning into a sinus infection and when it might be necessary to seek professional care.

For same-day seasonal care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our providers specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including allergies and sinusitis. Just walk in or plan your visit in advance by booking below.

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How Allergies Can Trigger Sinus Infections

When you have allergies, your body reacts to triggers like pollen, dust, or pet dander by releasing histamines. This response causes nasal tissues to swell and produce excess mucus. The combination of inflammation and mucus buildup can block normal sinus drainage, creating an environment where bacteria or viruses thrive. The result? A sinus infection, also called sinusitis. This is why people with chronic allergies are at higher risk of developing sinus infections.

Warning Signs Your Allergies Have Turned Into a Sinus Infection

It can be tricky to tell whether you’re still battling allergies or if you’ve developed a sinus infection. Look out for these important differences:

• Type of Nasal Discharge: Allergy-related mucus is usually thin and clear, while sinus infection discharge is often thick, yellow, or green.
• Facial Pain and Pressure: Unlike allergies, sinus infections often cause pain or pressure around the forehead, cheeks, and eyes.
• Fever and Fatigue: Low-grade fevers and overall tiredness point more to infection than allergies.
• Bad Breath and Reduced Smell: Sinus infections can cause halitosis and a dulled sense of taste or smell.
• Duration of Symptoms: Allergy flare-ups may last for weeks during pollen season, but if congestion and pain persist for more than 10 days or worsen after improving, it could be sinusitis.

Treatment Options For Allergy-Related Sinus Infections

Treatment depends on whether your sinusitis is viral, bacterial, or triggered by ongoing allergies. Common treatments may include:

• Over-the-counter relief such as decongestants, antihistamines, or saline sprays to ease congestion and swelling
• Prescription medications like stronger antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, or antibiotics (only when a bacterial infection is confirmed)
• Allergy management to control triggers, including avoiding allergens, using air purifiers, or exploring allergy medications
• Urgent care support for fast relief, proper diagnosis, and treatment tailored to your symptoms

If your symptoms are severe, not improving, or interfering with daily life, it’s best to visit urgent care. Providers can help determine whether you’re experiencing allergies, a sinus infection, or both. Prompt care can prevent complications, ease discomfort, and help you get back to feeling yourself faster.

Get Walk-In Illness Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale

Allergies may start with nothing more than sneezing and congestion, but if left unchecked, they can pave the way for painful sinus infections. Learning the warning signs can help you act quickly. With the right combination of treatment and allergy management, you can find relief and reduce your risk of repeat infections. If you’re struggling with symptoms, don’t wait it out. Visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale for a clear diagnosis and the treatment you need to breathe easier again. We’re open six days a week and appointments are never required to be seen by a board-certified medical provider. Our facility accepts most health insurance plans and offers cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about sinus infection treatment, or other services we provide, please contact our team directly at (303) 935-1000.