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Monsoon Sinus Issues: Not What You Think!
11 Aug
Summary
- Damp monsoon air doesn't thicken mucus; water actually thins it.
- Sinus flare-ups are typically allergic reactions, not infections.
- Dust mites and mold thrive in monsoon humidity, triggering reactions.
Sinus problems often worsen during the rainy season, but an ENT expert clarifies the actual causes. Dr. Trisha Srivastava explains that the perception of damp air thickening mucus is incorrect; water actually thins mucus, and nasal passages function best in warm, humid air. Instead of the weather itself, the monsoon's high humidity allows allergens like dust mites and mold to multiply rapidly.
These allergens cause nasal linings to swell, mimicking an infection but stemming from an allergic response. The sensation of a blocked nose isn't due to narrowed airways. It arises because cool air, which normally triggers a sense of an open nose via cold receptors, is absent in the warm, saturated monsoon air. This leads to the feeling of blockage even when airflow is not significantly reduced.
Dr. Srivastava advises taking preventive steps to reduce sinus issues during the rainy season. While the article is for informational purposes, it emphasizes consulting a doctor for any medical advice regarding sinus conditions and allergies.
