Navigating Winter Sinus Infections

Navigating Winter Sinus Infections: When to See an ENT Specialist

Winter sniffles are common, especially as the cooler desert breeze sets in. While Surprise, AZ, doesn’t experience harsh winters, the dry air and fluctuating temperatures can still take a toll on your sinuses.
For those with allergies or sensitive sinuses, it’s especially important to be mindful of potential triggers. Understanding when your symptoms go beyond simple sniffles and signal a more serious sinus issue is the key to staying healthy and comfortable this season.
Take steps to protect your sinuses and enjoy the mild Arizona winter worry-free!

When Do You Need to See an ENT Specialist?

An ENT (ears, nose, and throat) specialist is a healthcare provider with expertise in ears, nose, and throat conditions. ENT specialists are also known as otolaryngologists. While primary care doctors can sometimes help patients deal with pain and discomfort concerning their ears, nose, and throat, they might be referred to an ENT specialist if the problem is chronic and recurring.

If you experience any of the symptoms below, you might find yourself benefitting from seeing an ENT specialist:

• Chronic or recurring ear pain and infections
• Difficulty hearing or hearing loss
• Chronic or recurring sinus infections
• Frequent headaches or dizziness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent hoarse voice or difficulty speaking
• Chronic allergies
• Ringing in the ears
• Issues with balance
• Sleep apnea or chronic snoring
• Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

If you are concerned about any of the symptoms above, our specialists at Oasis ENT can help you navigate your concerns and conditions. Schedule an appointment with us today and let’s start talking about how we can help you be healthier.

In the Meantime, Learn How You Can Navigate Winter Sinus Infections

• Keep yourself hydrated

Hydration is a crucial key to keep yourself, your throat, and your sinuses healthy come wintertime. Drinking plenty of fluids will hydrate your throat, preventing it from getting too dry and irritated due to the chilly and dry winter air. It can also moisturize the mucous membranes and help thin mucus. This encourages proper mucus drainage, helping you breathe better.

• Nasal irrigation can help

Nasal irrigation can help break down mucus buildup and clear the sinuses. It also helps moisturize nasal passages to counteract the dryness of the winter air. You can do this with a saline nasal spray or via simple steam inhalation.

• Use a humidifier and an air purifier

Winter air can be dry not only on the skin but also on your throat and sinuses. This can easily cause irritation and inflammation. You can counter this by using a humidifier in your home to introduce much-needed moisture into indoor air. Additionally, you can use an air purifier too. This will filter out dust, dirt, allergens, and other airborne contaminants that can exacerbate our winter sinus symptoms.

• Keep your ears warm

Keeping your ears warm and protected against the harsh cold is crucial to fight off ear infections. Wear ear muffs and avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent ear pain and discomfort.

• Regularly clean your home

Keeping your home clean is crucial to keeping yourself – your ears, nose, and throat included – healthy. You should be wary of not only outdoor allergens and triggers but also those lurking inside, especially if you tend to spend a lot of time at home. Regularly vacuum and dust your home. Change your bedding regularly if you have pets at home.