When Allergy Symptoms Turn Into More Than a Runny Nose

A runny nose is one of the most familiar signs of allergies. But allergies don't always stop there.

As inflammation builds in the nose and upper airways, you may notice congestion, postnasal drip, headaches, coughing, or even difficulty breathing. When symptoms start affecting your sleep, energy, or everyday activities, it may be time to take a closer look.

More Than Sneezing and a Runny Nose

Allergies can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Nasal congestion or a blocked nose
• Sneezing and persistent drainage
• Postnasal drip
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Facial pressure or headaches
• Coughing or throat irritation
• Difficulty breathing

You may not experience all of these symptoms at once. Some can also overlap with other conditions, which can make it difficult to know whether allergies are actually behind the problem.

When Allergies Start Affecting Your Breathing

For some people, allergy symptoms can go beyond an uncomfortable nose. Allergies may be associated with asthma symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath.

If you notice that your breathing symptoms tend to appear or worsen during certain seasons or after exposure to specific triggers, it is worth discussing that pattern with an allergy or ENT specialist.

Don't Just Keep Treating the Runny Nose

If allergy symptoms keep coming back, simply treating the most obvious symptom may not address the bigger picture.

An evaluation can help identify potential triggers and determine whether allergies, chronic rhinitis, asthma, nasal obstruction, or another condition may be contributing to your symptoms.

Depending on your needs, allergy testing, allergy shots, biologic treatments, or other approaches may be considered.

When Should You Get Checked?

Consider an evaluation if your allergy symptoms are:

• Persistent or recurring
• Interfering with sleep
• Making it difficult to breathe comfortably
• Causing frequent coughing or throat clearing
• Affecting your ability to enjoy everyday activities

You don't have to wait until allergy symptoms become severe before seeking help.

When a Runny Nose Isn't the Whole Story

A runny nose may be where your allergy symptoms start, but it isn't always where they end. If congestion, postnasal drip, coughing, headaches, or breathing problems keep showing up, there may be more to investigate.

If allergies are affecting your breathing, sleep, or daily life, Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C. can evaluate your symptoms and discuss appropriate treatment options. Call 404-891-6576 to schedule an appointment.

Author

Ramie A. Tritt, MD Ramie A. Tritt, MD, FRCSC, specializes in nasal and sinus surgery as well as snoring and sleep apnea surgery at Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C.’s Sandy Springs location in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Tritt graduated from medical school with honors from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. He completed his otolaryngology residency at McGill University and his fellowship in otology and head and neck surgery at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, New York. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Otolaryngology and a fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Tritt is a member of the Medical Association of Georgia and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Tritt has been an instructor at national ENT meetings, a Medical Advisory Board member for computer image-guided sinus surgery, and been recognized by Atlanta Magazine as a “Doctor Who Doctors Go To”.