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How Weather Changes Impact Sinus Health and What You Can Do
Seasonal and weather changes can be exciting, but they’re less fun if sinus issues tag along. While many don’t give it a second thought, for some, these shifts bring about unwanted sinus symptoms that make the change of season a real challenge.
For those who are prone to allergies and those who have sensitive sinuses, weather changes often trigger sinus issues and infections. As we weather the changes in the air, we must understand how seasonal and weather changes affect our sinus health and what we can do to ensure healthy sinuses despite the seasonal changes.
The Role of Weather in Sinus Health
Weather and seasonal changes play a crucial role in sinus health and it all comes down to a variety of seasonal factors:
The colder season
Sinus issues and sinusitis flare-ups become common as we shift into the colder months. This is due to the colder season causing the sinus passages to constrict more than usual. The constriction in the sinus passages prevents proper mucus drainage, leading to mucus buildup and congestion, becoming a breeding ground for germs, viruses, bacteria, and infections.
Air is becoming drier
Dry air often has ties to causing sinus issues because it causes dryness and irritation in the nasal passages. When nasal passages are dry and aren’t properly moisturized, the sinuses become inflamed and swollen. The inflammation prevents proper mucus drainage and causes mucus buildup and congestion. Congested sinus passages are more susceptible to contracting infections.
Seasonal allergies
The changes in weather and seasons are often tied to seasonal allergies. When trees and weeds release pollen, it increases the number of allergens that can easily travel through the air for miles. When allergies are left untreated, they can lead to sinus infections.
Shifts in barometric pressure
Shifts in seasons also bring shifts in the barometric pressure. These changes can often lead to headaches, sinus pain, and a feeling of discomfort in the sinus cavities.
Take Care of Your Sinuses Despite the Weather Changes
Here are simple ways you can take care of your sinus health despite the weather and seasonal changes:
- Hydration is key: Keep your sinuses comfortable and hydrated. Use nasal sprays and ointments to lubricate your sinuses. Additionally, properly hydrate your body by drinking lots of water. Your goal is at least eight glasses of water per day.
- Nasal irrigation: Nasal irrigation is an effective method to clear your sinuses from mucus buildup and congestion. Saline nasal sprays, saline solution, or a neti pot can effectively break down mucus buildup and clear out the sinuses, improving breathing.
- Keep home clean: Always keep your home and surroundings clean to get rid of allergens, dust, and dirt that can irritate your sinuses. Dust and vacuum your home regularly.
- High-quality filters and humidifiers: Invest in high-quality filters like the HEPA filter to keep the air in your home clean and safe to breathe. Additionally, invest in a humidifier to add moisture to your indoor air and keep your sinuses from getting irritated.
- Boost immunity and keep defenses up: Lastly, keep yourself healthy and ready to fight off illnesses and infections. Maintain healthy habits like eating healthy, keeping yourself hydrated, regularly exercising, managing stress levels, practicing frequent handwashing, and getting enough sleep every night.
What You Can Do for Your Sinuses: Seek Help From CT-ENT
Weather and seasonal changes can bring sinus issues and infections for some, but understanding why this happens—and knowing what you can do about it—can make it easier to manage.
If your sinus health isn’t getting any better, even with the right precautions in place, it might be time to pay your ENT doctor a visit. Here at CT-ENT, we are dedicated to helping our patients find solutions for their sinus issues, making sure they live their lives to the fullest despite the weather changes. Book an appointment with us today and let’s see how we can help!
