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The Relationship between Sinusitis and Allergies |
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Allergy reactions to certain particles present in a person’s immediate environment can often trigger the onset of sinusitis. Some people are hypersensitive to the presence of allergens like dust, pollens, pollution, industrial chemicals and smoke.
Exaggerated responses of the immune system of such persons can lead to inflammation and trigger the release of certain chemicals in the body, resulting in the creation and accumulation of mucus. It is excess mucus secretion and its subsequent buildup that causes infection and blockage of the sinuses.
Sinusitis may develop as a result of exposure to plant pollens, food allergy (allergic reaction to certain foods like eggs, celery, peanuts, shellfish and milk) or animal allergy (reaction to presence of cockroaches, bird feathers, dust mites, dog or cat hair etc.). Thus, sinusitis and allergies may often develop as a result of the body’s inflammatory response to allergens.
Almost 70-80% of sinusitis cases occur due to allergic reaction of the body to various allergens. Common symptoms associated with sinusitis and allergies include cough, wheezing, fever, headaches, red eyes, constriction in the airways and a blocked or painful sensation in the ears.
Blood tests and skin testing are used to diagnose sinusitis and allergies. A doctor may prescribe drugs like corticosone, hydrocorticosone and theophylline etc. to block the action of the allergic particles. Patients may also undergo immunotherapy, which involves administering vaccinations with substantial doses of allergens to reduce severity or eradicate hypersensitivity altogether. Injections of IgE bodies may also be recommended.
In case, medicines and immunotherapy do not bear the desired results, the prospect of surgery may be explored. Surgery may also be recommended in cases where there are certain complications like the spread of the infection beyond the sinuses.
The best possible cure however, is to avoid contact with the specific allergen that a person is allergic to. Apart from allopathic treatment there are some alternate therapies like naturopathy, homeopathy, herbal remedies and traditional Chinese medications which can also be considered for treating this condition.
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