Contributed by – Healthians Team
A change in weather is usually a time for excitement, especially when it gives us a break from heat and humidity. However, for people with sinus issues, this change can spell trouble. These people are usually the ones to detect weather changes while others read the latest forecast.
Why does it happen? What is the relation between sinus and weather changes? What can you do to stop the misery? Let’s explore all of it.
Sinusitis symptoms to look out for
In sinusitis, nasal tissue swells and interferes with the normal draining of mucus. Eventually, it builds up in the sinuses which in turn causes the following symptoms:
- Facial pain
- Swelling around the eyes, nose, and forehead
- Congestion
- Difficulty breathing
- Reduced smell and taste
- Sinus headache
- Yellow/green mucus draining from the nose
- Teeth pain
- Sore throat
- Bad breath
Sinusitis and weather changes
Sinus infections and weather changes are definitely linked. Sinuses need a constant flow of mucus to stay healthy. Because of the triggers like cold air, pollens, and pollutants, they may produce more mucus leading to a flare-up of the infection.
If you have sinus problems, then you probably have the first-hand experience. A cool day with a slight breeze and no dust, mold, pollens and pollutants is the ideal weather for you. But, even the slightest increase in these irritants could cause a flare-up of your infection without any warning.
Sinusitis and changes in Barometric Pressure
Barometric pressure is the hidden enemy of all those with sinus issues. It is one of the trickiest climate issues which hardly gets noticed. Changes in barometric pressure are accompanied by sudden changes in the weather. These changes can alter your blood pressure. For the sufferers of sinus, this means sudden painful sinus pressure, sinus headache, and stuffiness.
So, what can you do to prevent this weather-related sinus headache? Better awareness is the answer. If you often suffer from sinus headache and stuffiness, then start tracking the weather and document how your sinus feels. Be on the lookout for patterns. This holds the key to when and how your sinus issues get triggered. Once you have a proper understanding of it, you can get in touch with a specialist and plan your treatment.
Sinusitis and the effect of dry air
Dry air is known to cause respiratory issues, dehydration, dried nostrils, damaged cilia, decreased vitamin A levels, and sore throats. Besides, when sinuses are dry, they attract more bacteria and become infected.
Here, although you have no control over the weather outdoors, you can control the indoor climate and keep your sinuses healthy. Invest in a humidifier and air conditioning to keep your house clean from allergens and bacteria. This way you can avoid sudden sinus pressure and keep other related issues at bay.
Home remedies for sinusitis
Try out these home remedies to get relief from sinus issues –
Hydrate yourself – Drink lots of water and use a humidifier. Fluids and humidification help to thin the mucus and drain sinuses.
Nasal irrigation – It simply means gently flushing out nasal passages with a saline solution. There are special squeeze bottles, bulb syringes, and neti pots available for this sole purpose.
Steam – Steam helps in loosening mucus which relieves congestion. You can add menthol, camphor, or eucalyptus oil to the water if you wish.
Warm and cold compresses – Rotating warm and cold compresses on sinuses helps.
Spices – Incorporate ginger, onion, garlic, and cayenne pepper in your meals.
Takeaway
Sinusitis can affect the quality of your life. Though there isn’t anything that you can do about sinusitis and weather changes, you can always stay a little more alert of these changes and stay prepared before it affects you. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available that can provide you relief. These home remedies are also tried, tested, and trusted methods.
