Empty spaces in the forehead, cheeks, and nose are called the sinuses. Usually, these areas go unnoticed. But if they become inflamed from sinusitis (sinus infection), they can become impossible to ignore.

During sinus infections, fluid builds up in the sinus cavities, causing a fever, headache, and stuffy or runny nose. People typically get sinus infections when they’re sick or have allergies.

Unfortunately, sinus issues are more common for people with psoriasis — and vice versa, with people who have certain chronic sinus problems are at a higher risk of psoriasis. While the connection isn’t fully understood, it’s likely related to inflammation and immune system dysfunction.

Here’s a deeper dive into how these conditions overlap and how to deal with pesky sinus problems.

Allergic Rhinitis and Psoriasis

Scientists have observed overlaps between psoriasis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). In one study, 31.8 percent of people with psoriasis had allergic rhinitis compared to just 13.4 percent of those without psoriasis. It’s possible that these conditions share specific immune pathways that don’t function the way they should.

In addition, more research is needed to determine how certain psoriasis treatments affect allergy symptoms and whether there’s an ideal treatment option to help with both conditions.

Guttate Psoriasis and Sinus Infections

In guttate psoriasis, small spots called papules develop on the arms, legs, and torso. This form of the skin condition usually develops in children or young adults. Health experts believe that stress, infections, and certain medications can trigger guttate psoriasis. A sinus infection or other illness, like strep throat, could contribute to this type of psoriasis.

Psoriasis Medication Side Effects

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that flares when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. Biologic medications like ustekinumab (Stelara) are designed to calm down the immune response. While these immunosuppressant drugs are very effective at reducing psoriasis symptoms, they also stifle the immune system’s ability to fight off real infections, including sinus infections. That’s why doctors thoroughly evaluate people before starting treatment and periodically afterward.

“I am on Stelara. I get sinus infections more frequently, but other than that, it works well,” explained a MyPsoriasisTeam member.

“I have a sinus infection. I get sick frequently due to biologics,” said another.

Let your doctor know right away if you develop signs of an infection while taking immunosuppressants. In some cases, frequent sinus infections can mean that you should try a different medication for psoriasis. Other times, prevention and early treatment of sinus problems can allow you to continue taking immunosuppressants for psoriasis. Your health care provider can help you weigh the pros and cons of different psoriasis treatments.

Sinus Infection Prevention and Treatment

Usually, sinusitis goes away without treatment. But if you have a compromised immune system because of your psoriasis medication, you may need a little extra help to clear out an infection.

To help prevent sinus problems, your doctor may recommend rinsing your sinuses with saline solution or using a steroid nasal spray. Avoiding allergens, smoke, and sickness can lower your risk.

Your doctor may recommend antibiotics, decongestants, or antihistamines to treat an ongoing sinus infection. If your sinus problems are caused by a deviated septum or nasal polyps, you may need surgery to fix the issue.

Severe symptoms may be signs of a medical emergency and should be evaluated right away by a health care professional. They include:

• Fever over 103 degrees Fahrenheit
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Vision changes
• Neck stiffness

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyPsoriasisTeam is the social network for people with psoriasis and their loved ones. On MyPsoriasisTeam, more than 127,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with psoriasis.

Do you experience sinus problems with your symptoms of psoriasis? Have you and your doctor discussed whether your treatment could raise your risk of infections like sinusitis? Post your suggestions in the comments below, or start a conversation on your Activities page.