Now that summer has arrived, you may be hoping for some sinus relief after the colder winter months! Unfortunately, summer weather can still cause issues with your sinuses, despite being warmer. The changes in temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure can affect your sinuses, leaving you with pain or pressure in your eyes, cheeks, and forehead.

When humidity or dry heat hits, you may experience sinus pressure or pain. An ENT can help you learn how to keep sinus pain away this summer! Keep reading to learn how your sinuses can be harmed by humidity or dry heat and get some tips to avoid sinus pain this summer.

How Can Summer Heat Affect Your Sinuses?

Your sinuses are covered by a thin lining called the mucous membrane, which itself is covered by tiny particles called cilia. The cilia keep your sinuses clean and push out mucus. However, they can also be vulnerable to changes in the weather.

High Humidity

When the humidity is high, the extra moisture in the air causes the cilia in your nose not to work as they should, which can cause you to have extra mucus. This excess mucus can drain into your throat, leading to coughs or sore throats, or can drain into your ears, causing them to clog, feel tender, or become infected.  

Dry Heat

Cilia in your body are affected by dry heat as well. With less moisture in the air, there is less moisture in your nose, which causes the mucus to dry up and become thicker and more likely to clog your sinuses. Not only is this uncomfortable, but dry mucus can lead to swelling, nosebleeds, and infections.

5 Ways to Avoid Sinus Harm From Humidity

When the humidity rises, you can take action to help your sinuses. Follow these five tips to prevent sinus pain from humidity this summer.

• Use a Saline Wash – Flush your nose with a saline rinse to help thin and clean the mucus.
• Apply a Warm Compress – Use a warm compress to help relieve pressure and open up your sinuses.

• Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated.

• Avoid Caffeine and Alcoholic Drinks – Caffeine and alcoholic drinks can make you dehydrated, so it is best to avoid them.

• Eat Spicy Food – Include spicy foods in your diet to help keep your sinuses open and flowing.

5 Ways to Avoid Sinus Harm From Dry Heat

You may not be able to control the dryness of the summer day, but you can do some things to help keep your sinuses moist. During the dry summer, you can find relief for your sinuses by following these five tips.

• Use a Humidifier – Have a humidifier in your home or take a travel one in the car to keep your sinuses moist. 

• Avoid Forced Dry Air – Air conditioners can make the air drier. Even though it is hot, try to limit using air conditioning and use other ways to stay cool, such as swimming or cool showers. 

• Reduce Allergens – Allergies can inflame the sinuses; try to reduce exposure to dust, pet dander, and pollen as much as possible. 

• Avoid Airborne Inhalants – Avoid cigarette smoke, campfire smoke, and hairspray that can make the air around you drier. 

• Use a Nasal Spray – Keep the sinus canal moist by using a nasal spray.

Find Sinus Relief From the Glatz Group at Valley Ear, Nose, and Throat

Summer is supposed to be a great time for fun and adventures, but sometimes you may experience sinus pain from the humidity or dry heat. Don’t let the weather ruin your summer! 

Dr. Glatz and his team of sinus experts are here to help you with your sinus troubles so that you can get back to your summer plans! 

If you’re struggling with sinus pain this summer, reach out to Dr. Glatz and his team today to find the sinus relief you need!

Schedule Your Relief!