What Actually Causes Sinus Problems During South Carolina’s Summers
A lot of people assume that when spring comes to an end, their sinus troubles also will. But because of South Carolina’s unique climate, the summer months might actually exacerbate it all. The heat and high humidity create an environment perfect for allergens and mold to fester. And some of the ways we beat the heat can make these sinus problems persistent, like going for a swim or blasting the air conditioner.
So here are common causes for a summer full of sinus problems, and ways to get around it all.
Humidity
Humidity plays a strong role in how your sinuses feel and function. Especially in a hot place like South Carolina, pressed right against the warm Atlantic Ocean. It causes the nasal passages to swell up, resulting in congestion for many residents. When your nose can’t drain mucus properly, you’ll have sensations of pressure and sometimes pain. It even affects people who don’t normally struggle with allergies.
You can’t control the outdoor humidity, but you can keep your house drier with a dehumidifier. A moderate humidity of 30-50% would make it harder for irritants to get in your nose and stay there. Another benefit of a dehumidifier is that it helps keep mold away.
Mold
Warm, damp environments are exactly what mold looks for and thrives in. Unfortunately, you’ll find it outdoors and growing in the corners of your room. When spores inevitably end up inhaled, they irritate the lining of your nasal passages and sinuses, and cause mucus to back up.
To reduce mold exposure, consider doing a monthly deep-cleaning, where you move cabinets and address all of the hard-to-reach spots. Regularly check bathrooms and kitchens for signs of mold, especially around windows. If you notice the air is heavier after showering, open a window or turn on a fan in the bathroom.
Grasses, Weeds, and Trees
While pollen is often associated with spring and blooming flowers, you also have to look out for grasses and weeds during summer. Common grass species release a large amount of pollen, resulting in congestion, sneeze-attacks, and itchy eyes. As the season progresses, ragweed emerges to bring your sinus symptoms into August and September.
One way to avoid pollen is by limiting the amount of time you stay outside. Specifically, try to stay indoors during the heat of the day or when it’s super windy. After going out, take a shower and change your clothes to get rid of pollutants that cling to fabrics and hair. Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays may provide relief, but consult with a specialist for persistent issues. A consultation with The Charleston Sinus Center (843-863-1188) could reveal underlying issues and put you on a path toward clearer sinuses.
Pools and Beaches
Swimming is a fun way to escape the sun; it’s one of summer’s most popular pastimes. But you might want to skip it if you’re struggling with allergies and sinus problems. Chlorine in swimming pools is too harsh for the nasal lining and can cause dryness or irritation. Natural bodies of water can be even riskier, because of the bacteria that are present. If the sinuses aren’t cleared out enough by mucus, the bacteria can linger and cause an infection (sinusitis).
If you plan on going for a swim, consider picking up a nose clip or plugs. This will prevent bacteria buildup and nasal irritation. Otherwise, when you get out of the water, a gentle rinse with a clean saline solution will flush out chlorine, salt, and other irritants. Simply limiting your time in chlorinated pools can also minimize discomfort.
Air Conditioning
This one might be surprising, but air conditioning may be a sneaky cause for your summertime sinus issues. A broken or poorly maintained ventilation system could be circulating irritants like dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold throughout your home, rather than cycling air.
To keep your AC from worsening your sinus problems, it needs to be maintained. Change the filters every few months to keep dust and other irritants from circulating through your home. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters will also improve the air quality. It also doesn’t hurt to have your system serviced by professional HVAC cleaners, to ensure the system is working right and isn’t harboring irritants like mold.
How to Cope with Summer Sinus Issues
Managing summer sinus issues starts with understanding what is causing your symptoms. At The Charleston Sinus Center, we can help identify whether heat, humidity, allergies, sinus inflammation, or another underlying condition may be contributing to your discomfort. Once the cause is clear, we can recommend a treatment plan designed to help you breathe easier and feel better through the summer months. To get started, call our office at 843-863-1188 to schedule a consultation.