_ spotlight on health _... Oy Allergies Or Sinusitis? Does Your Nose Always Know? (NAPSA)—It’s allergy season and you are feeling it—pressure between your eyes or in your forehead, a stuffy nose, and Tf recommended hy a doctor, take an over-the-counter pain reliever, take a decongestantto help relieve pressure and conges- toms seem worse than usual or last more than 16-14 days, it could be more than just allergies. You could have sinusitis—a sinus decongestant nasal spray for a short period of time * DO NOT ask doctor for an antibiotic, as it will not be effective against a viral infection. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics can cause bacteria to become resistant to currently available antibiotics Bacterial Sinus Infections Symptoms * Low-grade fever (101.5 or lower) itchy, watery eyes. Hf! your symp- tion, and/or use over-the-counter infection--and should see your doctor. What's the connection? Irritation from allergies can cause sinuses to become inflamed and filled with mucus, resulting in blockage of vital nasal drainage. Without drainage, viruses or bacteria are more likely to breed and can cause a sinus infection. Thirty-five million Americans suffer from sinusitis each year, but many do not seek the treatment they need. Because the symptomsof bacterial sinus infections are similar to those ofallergies and respiratory viruses ane a cold), you mayfind it difficult + tell the difference and know when to see a doctor. Here are charaeteristics of each and what to do if you are diagnosed. Allergies Symptoms * Sneezing, stuffy, runny and/or itchy nose Clear or whitish nasal drip and tickle m throat * Itchy, watery, or burning eves * Mild pressure or pain in upper teeth, cheeks, top of nose, between eyes, or in forehead What to De * Avoid exposure to allergens and control environment when possible Drink plenty of fluids * Avoid smoking, caffeine and alcohol * If recommended by a doctor, take a non-sedating antihistarnine or decongestant to reduce nasal congestion and swelling; use steroid eyedrops to relieve itchy, watery eves and use a steroid nasal spray or an additional antiinflammatory medication to prevent allergy symptoms Viral Sinus Infections Symptoms * High-grade fever (1GL.5 F or higher) at times * Generalized body aches and fatigue * Coughing * Drainage from nose thickens Nasal discharge is clear to yellowish * Feel need to see physician within two days of symptom onset What to Do * Wash hands frequently and properby * Drink plentyoffluids * Avoid smoking, caffeine and aleohal * Use humidifiers to control roommoisture Moderate to severe pressure or pain in upper teeth, cheeks, top of nose, between eyes, or in forehead * Stuffy nose with thick, yellowto brownor bloady mucus What to De * Follow tips for viral infections AND: * If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic, take all the medication as instructed even if you feel much better within a few days of starting your prescription. If you do not take all medication, the infection may return and some bacteria may develop resistance to the antibiotic you were given. To learn more about sinusitis and how te reduce your risk, visit www.SinusFacts.com, a new web site sponsored by Bayer Corporation. Information about sinus conditions and an interactive quiz can help you determine if your symptoms warrant a trip to the dactor.
