Plunging temperatures and snow are pretty common throughout the winter months in our region.
Those with sinus issues often go through their most miserable time of the year because of sinus pressure, sinus headaches, chronic congestion and inflammation, and sinus infections.
Let’s take a moment to consider how seasonal weather changes affect your sinuses and take a look at some ways to prevent sinus issues or ease your symptoms so you don’t miss out on all the best features each season has to offer.
Here Is What Happens to Your Sinuses Whenever the Weather Changes
Some think it was Mark Twain who said, “If you don’t like our weather, just wait a minute, it’ll change.” While this may rightfully be a quote from Will Rogers or some other famous figure, whoever it was made an accurate observation of how quickly the weather can change in our region.
Many of the weather changes we experience are often most dramatic during seasonal transitions, and these quick changes can frustrate and exacerbate symptoms for those who struggle with sinus challenges.
Sudden changes in temperature and humidity often cause the nasal membranes to swell, resulting in a runny or stuffy nose. These changes are often accompanied by a corresponding change in barometric pressure that typically triggers sinus pain and discomfort, as well as headaches.
The dip in humidity and temperatures, especially during fall and winter months, often contributes to dry air conditions, both indoors and out. This atmosphere ushers in a host of potential discomforts for sinus sufferers, like:
- Respiratory problems
- Dehydration
- Dry nose and sinuses
- Damage to cilia
- Sore throat
Though not common during the transition from fall to winter, seasonal allergies from spring to summer or summer to fall transitions often double the challenges faced by those with chronic sinusitis and other sinus health issues.
During these seasonal transitions, it can be difficult to determine whether the cause of your symptoms is related to allergies, a sinus infection, or weather changes.
Addressing Sinus Issues as the Weather Changes
To address sinus issues as the weather changes, The American Sinus Institute provides some excellent guidelines to help you find the relief you need.
Weather Changes vs. Allergens
Before you can treat your symptoms or condition, you need to determine whether they are the result of climatic changes or allergens. This is important because weather-related stuffiness and sneezing or non-allergic rhinitis not caused by allergens will not respond to antihistamines.
For non-allergic rhinitis, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications will help improve your symptoms, as will an investment into a humidifier, especially while you’re sleeping.
Know What Triggers Your Sinus Issues
Seasonal allergies are typically related to particular allergens, like pollen. If you are not already aware of which pollen triggers your allergies, you need to ask a healthcare provider to help you identify them.
Though maybe not as obvious, the same can be true with changes in the weather. Being aware of upcoming changes in temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure can help prepare you for the congestion and headaches that usually come with them.
Treatment for Chronic Sinusitis and Rhinitis
There is a broad selection of decongestant and antihistamine remedies available in today’s pharmaceutical market. While some are more effective than others, some conditions are too severe and complex to be addressed by medications alone.
There are a number of medical interventions available to address your chronic sinusitis and rhinitis that are often exacerbated by weather changes, allergens, or both.
Among the most effective treatments for chronic sufferers, and one that does not require the painful traditional surgical procedures, is a balloon sinuplasty. Your ENT specialist can use this non-surgical intervention to open up your sinus passages without making incisions and with virtually no downtime for recovery.
We Can Help You Prepare for Season Changes
When it comes to dealing with the sinus issues that accompany the changing of the seasons, your best bet is to get ahead of the game. Our ENT specialists at Fox Valley Ear, Nose & Throat are here to help you prepare for the onset of cold, dry weather and provide you with preventative options to help keep the symptoms of weather-related sinus challenges at bay.
If your sinus symptoms are a constant menace that are worse as the seasons change, but never really go away, then treatment for chronic sinusitis is what the doctor orders. Make an appointment with one of our doctors to get a new lease on life, free from the frustration of ongoing sinus issues, especially during the fall and winter months when they can be at their worst.
Learn more about treating your sinuses or schedule a consultation by clicking here, or give us a call at one of our Northern Illinois clinics: Algonquin: (847) 854-0005, Elgin: (847) 741-8500, St. Charles: (630) 377-5000, Huntley: (847) 741-8500.