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SATURDAY, April 17 (HealthDayNews) -- You've been sneezing for weeks, and your head constantly feels stuffed up.

Is it just your springtime allergies flaring up, or is it something more serious, such as sinusitis?

Allergies are caused by the body overreacting to what is normally a harmless substance. As the body tries to fight off the harmless invader, symptoms begin. The hallmarks of spring allergies or hay fever are sneezing, watery eyes and a runny nose, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI).

Allergies can be treated with antihistamines or by avoiding allergy triggers such as dust mites, pollen or animals. More than just a nuisance, allergies cost more than $250 million in lost work days in the United States every year. Worse yet, untreated allergies often lead to sinusitis, an infection of the sinuses.

Symptoms of sinusitis include pain in the forehead, teeth or face. Some people experience coughing, itchy eyes or sneezing also. Nasal discharge is usually dark yellow or green. Antibiotics are often needed to treat sinusitis.

To prevent sinusitis, the AAAAI recommends treating your allergies and using nasal steroids to reduce inflammation in your nasal passageways if needed. Saline sprays can also be used to help prevent chronic sinusitis.

Another way to prevent sinusitis is to prevent your allergies, so if your allergies are caused by pollen, try to stay indoors with the windows closed on windy or very dry days. After a rain, pollen counts drop dramatically.

More information

This information from the American Academy of Family Physicians offers advice on controlling your allergies.

(SOURCES: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology; American Academy of Family Physicians)

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