Sinus Infections vs. Fall Allergies: How to Tell the Difference

By: Dr. Madeleine Herman, MD

As the weather changes in Houston, many people experience stuffy noses, congestion, and headaches. But how do you know if it’s a sinus infection or just fall allergies? Since the symptoms often overlap, it’s important to understand the differences so you can get the right treatment. At SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston, our ENT specialists help patients find relief from both sinus infections and allergies.

What Are Fall Allergies?

Fall allergies are triggered by seasonal allergens such as ragweed pollen, mold spores, and dust mites. When your immune system reacts to these triggers, it causes symptoms like:

• Sneezing

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Itchy, watery eyes

• Scratchy throat

• Fatigue from poor sleep

Allergy symptoms are usually long-lasting and may improve with antihistamines or allergy treatment.

What Is a Sinus Infection?

A sinus infection (sinusitis) happens when the sinus cavities become inflamed, often due to bacteria or viruses. This inflammation blocks normal drainage, leading to infection. Symptoms may include:

• Thick yellow or green nasal drainage

• Facial pain or pressure (especially around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead)

• Nasal congestion

• Headaches

• Postnasal drip with cough

• Fever (in some cases)

Unlike allergies, sinus infection symptoms often come on suddenly and may last 10 days or longer without improvement.

How to Tell the Difference Between Allergies and a Sinus Infection

Here are a few quick tips:

• Duration: Allergy symptoms may last for weeks or months, while sinus infections often appear suddenly and persist for 1–2 weeks.

• Discharge: Clear, watery drainage is more common with allergies. Thick, discolored mucus often points to a sinus infection.

• Fever: Rare with allergies, more likely with sinus infections.

• Response to medication: Allergy symptoms often improve with antihistamines. Sinus infections may need antibiotics or ENT treatment if they don’t clear up on their own.

When to See an ENT Specialist

If you experience severe, persistent, or recurring symptoms, it’s time to see an ENT. You should schedule an appointment if you have:

• Frequent sinus infections throughout the year

• Ongoing congestion that doesn’t improve with allergy medications

• Facial pressure or headaches that interfere with daily life

• Snoring, sleep problems, or breathing difficulties linked to nasal obstruction

An ENT can help you determine whether your symptoms are due to allergies, sinus infection, or both, and create a personalized treatment plan.

Treatments Available at SCENT Houston

Our ENT specialists offer comprehensive care, including:

• Allergy testing and treatment plans

• Medications to reduce inflammation and infection

• In-office procedures like balloon sinuplasty for chronic sinusitis

• Surgical options if structural issues (like a deviated septum or nasal polyps) are causing recurring problems

Find Relief This Fall

Don’t let seasonal symptoms disrupt your life. Whether you’re battling fall allergies or a sinus infection, the team at SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston is here to help you breathe easier.

👉 Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief.