nicki foster

I HAVE CONSTANT SINUS PAIN - WHY DOES THE WEATHER EFFECT THE CONDITION AND WHAT SHOULD I TAKE

[Dr Rajput]

Hi, welcome to the forum, sinus pain and allergy is interlinked. A knowledge about aeroallergens present in your geographic location and the allergens in your home and work areas is essential in this process.  Allergen exposure is usually seasonal, like tree and grass pollen in the spring (rose fever) or ragweed pollen exposure in the fall (hay fever) are the most likely causative factors.

Hence, during pollinating seasons and the allergens present in your area you are staying, are responsible for the exacerbations of sinus pain. Continued nasal inflammation associated with allergic rhinitis leads to obstruction of the sinus osteomeatal complex, thereby predisposing to bacterial infection of the sinuses and sinus pain.

With a careful history, History you need to undergo nasal examination, Allergen-specific testing, Skin testing or Serum tests for allergy and allergen challenge are required. Evaluation for concurrent conditions like rhinitis and asthma should be taken into consideration.

Treatment in the form of
- Ensure the bacterial infection if present should be completely treated (bacterial sinusitis).
- Intranasal glucocorticoids - usually higher doses started and then step down to minimal effective dose is continued and gradually withdrawn (allergic rhino sinusitis only).
-Antihistamine/decongestant combinations, Cromolyn sodium, Montelukast and Ipratropium bromide as adjuvant will provide relief.

The above mentioned drugs should only be taken after consultation from ENT specialist. Take care and regards.