Can asthma and allergy medicine cause a sinus infection?

Posted by wkhartmann @wkhartmann, Oct 23 2:11am

I had severe asthma and allergies as a teenager, but things improved in my 20s and I thought I’d grown out of it. I was on allergy shots for about 25 years. Since having COVID in 2022, though, my respiratory health has taken a hit—multiple colds, sinus infections, and even pneumonia in 2023. I’ve been on several rounds of antibiotics since then and even left my job hoping rest would help me recover. Unfortunately, this fall I was sick again for the entire month of October.

Mold and grass have always been my worst allergens, and lately the wildfire smoke from Canada has made things worse. I’m currently on Montelukast, Flonase, QVar Redihaler and Zyrtec. My doctor added Astelin nasal spray this year, but it worsened my congestion—he finally agreed I should stop it.

I’ve also had a constant burning sensation in my throat for several months now. Back in June and July, I was so exhausted I was taking three-hour naps two to three times a day, on top of already sleeping 7–9 hours a night. That level of fatigue was really alarming.

I’m starting to worry about being overmedicated. I’ve read that some of my meds can actually contribute to sinus issues. I just learned Flonase is only recommended for six months out of the year, but I’ve been using it nonstop. With another sinus infection now, I’ve decided to stop both Flonase and Zyrtec. I’m taking Augmentin.

I have a CT scan of my sinuses scheduled for Halloween and a second-opinion ENT visit in December. I’m trying to figure out what’s truly helping and what might be making things worse. If anyone has experience with post-COVID respiratory issues, medication side effects, or navigating ENT care, I’d love to hear your insights.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Support Group.

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