Allergy

Woman with allergies outdoors

What are allergies?

Allergies occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to harmless substances such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. This immune response causes inflammation in the nose and sinuses, leading to sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and itching of the eyes, nose, or throat. Some people experience seasonal symptoms, while others have year-round reactions to indoor triggers.

How are allergies treated?

Treatment focuses on reducing exposure to allergens and calming the body’s immune response. Options include antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, saline rinses, and allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) to desensitize the immune system. Allergy testing helps identify specific triggers to guide a personalized treatment plan. Testing can be done by pricking the skin or done with a blood test.

Acute Sinusitis

What is acute sinusitis?

Acute sinusitis is a short-term inflammation of the sinus cavities, usually following a cold or viral upper respiratory infection. The swelling can block normal sinus drainage, leading to facial pressure, nasal congestion, discolored mucus and sometimes fever. Most cases are viral and improve within 10–14 days.

How is acute sinusitis treated?

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and restore drainage. Saline rinses, nasal corticosteroid sprays, rest and hydration are first-line measures. Antibiotics are reserved for bacterial infections or cases lasting longer than 10 days. Pain relievers may help with discomfort or pressure. In severe cases, oral corticosteroids are added to alleviate the swelling of the sinus lining which contributes to the congestion and pressure.

Chronic Sinusitis

Man holding sinus area on his nose

What is chronic sinusitis?

Chronic sinusitis is a long-term inflammation of the sinuses lasting 12 weeks or longer. It may result from persistent infection, allergies, nasal polyps or structural blockage. Symptoms include congestion, facial pressure, decreased sense of smell and postnasal drip that rarely fully resolve.

How is chronic sinusitis treated?

Nasal corticosteroid sprays are key to controlling inflammation. Saline irrigations can help the symptoms. Short courses of oral steroids or antibiotics may help during flare-ups. If medical therapy fails, endoscopic sinus surgery can open blocked pathways and improve long-term sinus health. Surgery can often be done minimally invasively for certain patients. The goal of surgery is to allow for better delivery of medications and sustained symptom relief.

Nasal Polyps

What are nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps are soft, benign growths that develop inside the nasal passages or sinuses from chronic inflammation. They are often associated with chronic sinusitis, asthma or aspirin sensitivity. Polyps can block airflow, cause loss of smell and lead to frequent sinus infections.

How are nasal polyps treated?

Nasal corticosteroid sprays are the first-line treatment to shrink polyps and reduce inflammation. Short courses of oral steroids may help when symptoms are more severe. Biologic medications, such as dupilumab, can be effective for patients with recurrent or resistant polyps. In some cases, endoscopic sinus surgery is needed to remove polyps and improve breathing. This is often done in conjunction with medical therapy. In the most severe cases, a multidisciplinary approach may be needed, involving allergists, pulmonologists and rhinologists.