Crystal Furton, an ENT specialist at Dallas Breathe-Free Sinus and Allergy Centers, said barometric pressure and rainy weather can worsen sinus and allergy symptoms by increasing sinus pressure and encouraging mold growth.
“The barometric pressure can really place a lot of external force on your sinuses,” said Furton, according to Instagram. “It can really add to that sinus pressure that people are having. People can experience sometimes worsening symptoms when we have more rain. Rain can bring about more things like mold and mildew.”
Barometric pressure changes can significantly influence sinus pressure and symptoms. A study published in the American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy found that decreases in atmospheric pressure are associated with increases in sinus pain and discomfort in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. The researchers concluded that such pressure fluctuations can impact the air trapped within the sinus cavities, leading to increased physical pressure and pain.
Increased precipitation and flooding events have been linked to a rise in respiratory health issues due to heightened mold exposure. According to a study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, damp indoor environments resulting from excessive rainfall can lead to asthma onset or exacerbation, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections. The research emphasizes the importance of addressing moisture intrusion in homes to mitigate these health risks.
High indoor humidity levels, often resulting from rainy weather, create optimal conditions for mold growth, which can adversely affect respiratory health. According to the World Health Organization’s guidelines on indoor air quality, dampness and mold are associated with increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms, allergies, and asthma. Maintaining indoor relative humidity between 40% and 60% is recommended to prevent mold proliferation and protect respiratory well-being.
Furton is a Family Nurse Practitioner, and brings over 15 years of diverse healthcare experience to Dallas Breathe Free, including critical care, pediatrics, and urgent medicine. Her academic achievements underscore a strong clinical foundation that enhances patient-centered care in sinus and respiratory health.
Dallas Breathe Free is a medical practice specializing in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) care. The clinic provides treatments for sinus and nasal conditions and offers procedures such as balloon sinuplasty and allergy testing. It is staffed by board-certified medical professionals based in Dallas, Texas.
