Can allergic rhinitis cause sinusitis?

Allergic rhinitis is an immune reaction in the nose. Exposure to a trigger can cause sneezing, itching, watery discharge and swelling. The sinuses drain through narrow openings into the nose, so swelling may slow that drainage. This can lead to congestion, facial pressure, reduced smell and mucus at the back of the throat. Sinusitis may also follow a viral infection or arise from structural blockage, nasal polyps or other inflammation. Allergy symptoms tend to be linked with triggers and itching, whereas sinusitis may bring facial discomfort and thicker discharge, but symptoms overlap. An examination is the best way to decide what is driving them.

Avoid known triggers where practical, keep smoke away from the home, and use allergy treatment as directed by a clinician or pharmacist. Saline rinsing can help wash away mucus; use sterile, distilled or previously boiled and cooled water, and clean the equipment after each use. Rest, fluids and a warm compress may ease pressure. Follow label directions for any pain medicine and ask before using it for a child or with other medicines. Decongestant sprays should not be continued beyond their product guidance because rebound blockage can occur. Seek advice if symptoms keep returning.

Arrange a review when facial pain, blocked nose, reduced smell or discharge persists, keeps returning, or interferes with sleep. Seek urgent help for swelling or redness around an eye, vision changes, severe headache, confusion, stiff neck, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Prompt assessment is also needed for severe facial pain with fever or a person who appears very unwell. A clinician can check for allergy, infection and physical blockage before recommending treatment.

Do my symptoms fit allergy, sinusitis, or both? Which nasal treatment and rinsing method should I use? Should recurring symptoms prompt an examination for polyps, structural blockage or another cause?