Typically, sinus infections and allergies are common during the summer season. The scientific reason behind this is that plants release pollen during the summer months, which will cause allergies in some people, however this cold will only last a few days. The place where you live in the summer is also a cause of sinus infections because the hot and dry air can irritate your sinus. Further, read this blog to understand why sinus infections are more common in the summer.
What Are Sinus Infections?
Before knowing why it is common to get sinus infections in summer, let’s understand what sinus infections are. Sinus infections are also mentioned as sinusitis, which occurs when the nasal passages surrounded by the cavities become inflamed. This swelling can be caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, or by allergies or other irritants.
Some common sinusitis symptoms are facial pain, nasal congestion, headaches, a runny nose, and fever. At times, these acute sinus infections even last for weeks and can be prolonged, lasting for months.
What Can Cause Sinus Infections?
While combating sinus infections in the summer, we will experience inflammation unavoidably, even numerous other reasons can cause this. Further, let’s see the causes.
- Less Humidity: Your nasal passage function will be better when there is sufficient moisture to keep them lubricated. Also, your mucus will get thickened when you live in a low-moisture environment, which can lead to swelling of your sinuses.
- Smoke: Few people prefer bonfires at home or during camp in the summer. Even some people fire the brush piles, and in the end, the caveat is that consistent exposure to smoke could affect the nasal passages and lead to swelling, eventually, it will end up with an infection.
Why Are Sinus Infections More Common In The Summer?
There is a prevalent thought that sinus infections are more common in the summer season, but the truth is these infections can occur in any season. But there are certain factors linked with summer that may contribute to a surge in the risks for some people.
– Allergies:
Allergies are the primary reason for causing sinus infections in summer. Typically, plants will release pollen during the warmer seasons, which will trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. These reactions will result in swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, making people more prone to sinus infections.
– Air Conditioning:
Air conditioning helps to relieve the sweltering summer heat, but it can also contribute to sinus infections in summer. Spending more time in air-conditioned areas can dry out the nasal passages, making them more susceptible to infections.
– More Outdoor Activities:
Usually in summer, people wish to spend more time outdoors, engaging themselves in different environmental factors that can trigger sinus infections. Factors that contribute to sinus infections include pollution, dust, and pollen.
– Swimming:
When we think about summer, the first things that come to mind are hydration and swimming, which can be in pools, lakes, or the oceans. Whereas, the chlorine present in pools and the bacteria in natural bodies of water can affect the nasal passages, which may lead to sinus infections in summer, most importantly in people susceptible to such problems.
– Travel:
Most of us travel to places in the summer for vacations or family visits. Traveling helps us to be exposed to new environments, climates, and allergens, surging the likelihood of sinus infections, notably for those with sensitive sinuses.
When To Seek A Doctor?
At times, your condition may get worse, and you are advised to visit a sinus specialist in Coimbatore and get an appropriate treatment. Immediately visit your doctor when you are facing:
- Visionary changes
- Acute pain in your face
- High fever
- Feeling difficult to breath
- Stiff neck
- Inflamed or reddened eyes
- Difficulty with thinking
What Are The Treatments For Sinusitis?
Before initiating the treatment, doctors will consider the following factors:
- Age
- Medical history
- Present health situation
- The severity of your condition
- Your preferences
- Your symptoms
So visit the best ENT hospital in Coimbatore to get the appropriate medical treatments, like:
– Nasal Irrigations: Using warm and salty water to rinse your mouth with a rinse bottle.
– Steam Inhalation: Through your nose inhale this steam three to four times a day. At least a session should last for 10 minutes.
– Oral Steroid: Your healthcare professional will recommend you an oral steroid when none of the medications is helping you or when your present condition is severe.
– Nasal Sprays: Usually, most of the nasal sprays come with steroid medication, which will potentially reduce the inflammation.
– Antibiotic Medications: When the infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotics will help you there. Also, be conscious of your prescription while taking antibiotics.
Final Takeaway:
In conclusion, we can say you can experience sinus infections at any time of the year, also few factors associated with sinus in summer may indeed increase the risk for some people. Some factors, like allergies, air conditioning, outdoor activities, swimming, and travel, can all contribute to sinus in summer months. It is crucial to understand that not everyone will get sinus in summer. Following some steps like staying hydrated, avoiding allergens, and practicing better nasal hygiene can assist you in staying away from sinus issues year-round.
