Why Are My Sinus Headaches Worse in the Winter?

Do you often have sinus headaches? Have you noticed that they seem to get even worse during the winter months? For some of us, it is an unpleasant (and annoying) fact. Read on to find out why you may be suffering with headaches even more when the weather is cold.

What Causes Sinus Headaches?

Sinus headaches can come with facial pressure; a stuffy, runny nose; draining yellowish mucus; and fevers. They can be caused by sinus issues, such as small sinus openings or nasal polyps that block the sinuses, which make it difficult for them to drain properly. You may have the worst sinus headaches during the spring, when there is lots of pollen in the air and lots to be allergic to. However, there are plenty of other things that can cause sinus headaches in the winter:

• Dry air. Are you running your heater or furnace a lot lately? This can dry out the air, which can cause a variety of problems (as well as just making life uncomfortable). It can make the mucus in your sinuses thicken, which can make it difficult for the mucus to remove bacteria as effectively as it is supposed to.
• Cold and flu. Winter is the time for these respiratory problems, which seem to get passed back and forth between family members. Sinus inflammation and nasal congestion can result in bad sinus headaches.
• Stress. The holidays can be a stressful time for many people – even those who see it as the best time of the year can still be stressed out by it! Stress weakens the immune system and makes it harder to fight off colds and flu.
• Allergens. Pollenating plants are still active during the winter. You may also be allergic to mold and dust in your home, and there may be excess pet dander in the air from your pets staying inside and out of the cold.

Are your sinuses constantly in pain? Does it seem like you always have a headache? No matter what time of year it is, the staff at Lakeside Allergy ENT can help. Contact the office in Rockwall and Forney for an appointment. Call (972) 771-5443 today!