Coughing, sneezing, runny nose and congestion can be very irritating – especially when they stick around for longer than the course of the typical cold. If these symptoms continue to bother you for more than a few weeks, there is a chance you may be suffering from either sinusitis or allergic rhinitis. Because the indicators of these conditions often overlap, it can be difficult to pinpoint which one is causing your issues. However, there are some key differences between rhinitis vs. sinusitis, and knowing them can help you figure out which is the more likely culprit behind your discomfort.
At Ear Nose Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Specialists, our board-certified ENT specialists are highly trained and qualified to treat both rhinitis and sinusitis, as well as a range of other ENT issues. Today, we’ll take a look at the common symptoms for rhinitis vs. sinusitis and explain how we can help you find relief from either condition. For more information on our ENT services, feel free to contact our Willow Grove office at 215-659-8805.
Rhinitis Vs. Sinusitis | ENTFPSS Explains the Difference
Before we venture into how one might distinguish between sinusitis and rhinitis, let’s start by comparing how the two conditions are defined:
- Rhinitis – Inflammation of the mucus membrane in the nose
- Sinusitis – Inflammation in the cavities surrounding the nasal passages (the sinuses)
While both can result from the common cold or allergies, sinusitis is usually caused by an infection. Sometimes, sinus congestion and rhinitis-related inflammation can even set the stage for sinusitis to develop.
So, how can you tell if you are suffering from rhinitis or sinusitis? Here are a few distinct symptoms to look for, to help answer this question:
- Rhinitis often causes the symptoms you would expect from allergies/hay fever, including sneezing, an itchy nose and itchy, watery eyes. Nasal discharge is typically clear in the case of rhinitis.
- Sinusitis is more likely to be accompanied by a fever, headache and sinus pressure, as well as green/yellow nasal discharge.
In cases of both rhinitis and sinusitis, lingering symptoms can make you feel downright miserable. Fortunately, visiting a qualified ENT physician such as Dr. Joshua Goldberg can put you on the path to resolving your symptoms through proper treatment for your individual case.
Find Relief from Nasal & Sinus Allergy Issues at Dr. Goldberg’s Office
If you are concerned that you may be suffering from rhinitis or sinusitis, the team at Dr. Goldberg’s office is here to help. We offer a wide range of safe & effective treatments for nasal and sinus allergy issues, including medications, sinus implants, allergy shots & drops and more. To schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms & appropriate treatment options with our specialists, call our office today at 215-659-8805.
