Dallas City Wire

• Sinus infections and other illnesses are more common during the winter months.

• Thirty-one million Americans suffer from sinus infections each year.

• Using an air humidifier and frequently washing your hands can reduce your chances of getting a sinus infection.   

More people start to experience sinus issues as the winter season approaches, some of which can be resolved with a simple fix, but Dr. Monty Trimble of Dallas Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers says patients with persistent problems should see a specialist to get more permanent relief.

According to a report by Insider, 31 million Americans suffer from sinus infections every year. Symptoms include congestion, a headache, pressure in the ears and sinuses, or a cough. 

"When people get sick, rinsing the nose can temporarily be helpful. But when you think about what's going on in the sinuses, whether it's a chronic inflammatory issue or even a recurrent infectious type issues, ultimately it seems like it's the opening of the sinus that is really the issue," Trimble, a board-certified otolaryngologist, told Dallas City Wire.

During the winter months, sinus infections, colds, and the flu become more common, Heritage First ENT reported. A contributing factor for the increase in sickness is drier air during this time of the year, which can dry out the mucus lining in the nose, causing enhanced risk for infection and congestion. Heat from electric heaters and fireplaces can also serve as a nasal irritant. 

Alabama ENT suggests a few tips to decrease the chance of developing sinus issues during the winter, including using a humidifier, breathing steam from a hot shower and frequent handwashing.

If you're interested in learning more about diagnosis or treatment of chronic sinusitis, please take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.