Mark Kline, a physician assistant at Frederick Breathe Free, said that allergies can contribute to sinusitis when unmanaged, leading to inflammation, excess mucus, and drainage issues. This statement was made on Instagram on February 5.
“Allergies can lead to sinusitis,” said Kline, according to Instagram. “You’re not managing your allergies and you’re having extra mucus production and you have some structural issues that doesn’t allow for normal draining. Those allergies can cause increased inflammation within those sinuses and then you end up getting sinusitis.”
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, affects between 10% and 30% of the global population. This condition leads to inflammation of the nasal passages, causing symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. When the sinus linings become inflamed due to these allergies, it can result in swelling and increased mucus production, potentially leading to sinus congestion and sinusitis.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that in 2021, 25.7% of adults had a seasonal allergy, 7.3% had eczema, and 6.2% had a food allergy. These conditions can worsen with exposure to pollutants, smoke, or allergens. Effective management often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgery to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), nearly one in three U.S. adults and more than one in four U.S. children reported having a seasonal allergy, eczema, or food allergy in 2021. This condition can exacerbate sinus issues if untreated, leading to complications such as sinusitis. Effective management of allergic rhinitis is crucial to prevent such complications.
Kline is a physician assistant specializing in sinus health at Frederick Breathe Free. He began his medical career in emergency medicine, trauma care, and intensive care unit training at PG Hospital in Cheverly, Maryland. Kline also served as an army reservist providing medical care during his deployments to Iraq from 2003-2004 and 2007-2008.
Frederick Breathe Free is an ear-nose-throat practice affiliated with National Breathe Free. They offer a range of treatments tailored to address allergies, sinus complications, and various ear-nose-throat ailments. Their services include innovative sinus treatments such as balloon sinuplasty and comprehensive allergy management.
