Vent the House or Vent the Nose

Constant allergies are a struggle for people around the globe. What makes it even more troublesome is when allergens are found in the house – animal dander, dust, pollen, weeds or grasses, cleaning agents, etc. It makes it difficult to be truly at ease in a place made to make us feel comfortable than in our own homes. There is, however, a possibility that it is not because of allergies, and it may be an underlying problem within the sinuses.

Allergies or Sinus Infection: How to Tell the Difference

It can be fairly difficult to distinguish the difference between a sinus infection and an environmental allergy, but there are some key factors that can help. It is important to figure out how long the symptoms have been persisting and if they go away with a change of environment. Changes in environment can include wind, unusual weather, pollutants or irritants in the air. If the stuffy nose, pressure in the head and postnasal drip (mucus draining from the nose) continue through changes in environment and time, it is likely that the issue is really a sinus infection.

Sinus Problems: How to Prevent Them

Sinus infections can be caused by any number of irritants. Anything from the common cold to smoke or allergies can cause a sinus infection to occur. Staying hydrated, washing hands frequently with warm water and soap and trying to remain in overall good health can help prevent them. If it is something external, it is important to find the cause and eliminate it (if possible.) If a person is allergic to dust, for instance, they would have to be diligent about cleaning and using an air filter in their home. Before going through “spring cleaning” several times a year to improve breathing, it is encouraged that one visits a doctor, or an ear, nose, and throat specialist, that can put them on the right path when figuring out how to tackle these issues.

Pay Attention to Your Symptoms

If something in your home is causing discomfort, it is important to pay attention to the signs and take the steps needed to get back to your healthiest self. Clearing the irritants from a household can help one with being able to breathe better but fixing what’s wrong on the inside can prevent these discomforts longer. Minimally invasive procedures are now available and can improve not only the breathing of an individual, but their living. So “vent the house or vent the nose.”