A lot of people aren't all that thrilled to see the return of spring-like weather because they suffer from seasonal allergies.
Dr. Patti Nakfoor at 98.6 Emergicenter says it can be tough to tell the difference between allergies and a sinus infection. The biggest distinguishing factor is the amount of facial pain.
A sinus infection is usually worse. It causes pain in the nose, cheeks, forehead and even the upper row of teeth. It can also turn your mucus dark yellow or green.
You can take over-the-counter decongestants for either a sinus infection or allergies. But doctors say you shouldn't use them for more than three days because they can make the congestion worse and raise your blood pressure or heart rate.
Saline spray or a netti pot can help clear your nasal pathways. See a doctor if the symptoms last longer than four days. That's often the only way to tell if you have a sinus infection or allergies.
