Do you have a much more difficult time when it’s really humid outside? It isn’t just about feeling sticky; it could also be affecting your sinus health. Sinus infections, medically known as sinusitis, can frequently be aggravated by high humidity levels.
Symptoms of a sinus infection
Discomfort and a general disturbance of your daily life frequently go hand-in-hand with sinus infections. These infections occur when fluid builds up in the sinuses, resulting in infection, usually by viruses or bacteria.
Recognizing the symptoms is critical for timely treatment:
- Tooth Pain: Tooth pain is not uncommon with sinus infections.
- Persistent Nasal Congestion: Stubborn sinus congestion lasting for weeks is frequently the consequence of sinus infections.
- Headaches: Sinus inflammation will frequently cause pressure headaches.
- Excessive Sinus Drainage: Another sign of a sinus infection is persistent sinus drainage.
- Fever: Sinus infections sometimes come with a persistent fever.
You might not have these symptoms all at once, but you should get in touch with your doctor if you have any prolonged cold-like symptoms to rule out a sinus infection.
Can humidity cause sinus infections?
Amongst the various causes of sinus infections, humidity certainly plays a role. Humidity can have a significant impact on respiratory defense systems which, in turn, can lead to sinus infections.
- Increased Susceptibility to Allergens: High humidity levels can lead to extended exposure to allergens and irritants, exacerbating sinus inflammation and fluid accumulation.
- Effects on Cilia Function: Humidity has an effect on the tiny hairs in your nasal passage that help move mucus around known as cilia. In extremely humid weather, cilia function diminishes, compromising the body’s defense against infection.
What are optimal humidity levels?
Maintaining an optimal balance of humidity is important for sinus health. While the body’s defensive mucus and cilia need sufficient moisture to work efficiently, extremely high humidity levels can be detrimental.
Tracking dew points, particularly when they rise into the 70s, can help people gauge humidity levels and take correct precautions.
Reducing the risk of a sinus infection triggered by humidity
While complete elimination of humidity-induced sinus infections might be challenging, several preventive measures can decrease the risk:
- Avoiding Allergens and Irritants: During humid weather, avoiding known allergens and irritants can reduce sinus swelling. Avoiding activities such as hiking in wooded areas or exposure to smoke can help mitigate the risk of infection.
- Utilizing Nasal Sprays: Healthy cilia function and a reduced risk of infection can be achieved by using nasal sprays to maintain optimal moisture levels in the nasal passage.
When is it time to schedule an appointment?
Chronic or recurrent sinus infections, especially during humid periods, warrant consultation with an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist. Factors like sinus anatomy or underlying medical conditions might contribute to vulnerability to infections.
An ENT can help encourage sinus wellness by recommending proper medical interventions and providing personalized guidance.
Enjoy your summer free of sinus infections
Summer offers abundant opportunities for outside enjoyment, but the threat of sinus infections shouldn’t stop individuals from relishing the season. By understanding the impact of humidity on sinus health and utilizing preventive strategies, people can safeguard against infections and fully take part in summer activities.
For those worried about sinus health, contact us to schedule an assessment today.