The change of seasons brings a whole new array of weather patterns, stunning new landscapes & a welcome shift in the air – but for many people in Varanasi, this time of year also brings a whole host of problems. Whether it’s the non-stop sneezing, blocked sinuses, headaches or nasty sinus infections—the sheer discomfort can be a real drag.
According to Dr. Sanjay Teza, a top-notch ENT specialist in Varanasi, the key to beating these seasonal woes is first understanding exactly how the weather changes are affecting your respiratory system.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at how the seasons actually affect your sinus and allergy health, the most common symptoms to watch out for & what you can do to tackle these problems – and get your sinuses back on track.
The Lowdown on Sinus & Allergy Issues
Before we dive into how the seasons affect your sinuses, let’s get a grip on what sinus and allergy problems actually mean.
- Sinuses—these are the air pockets in your forehead, cheeks, and nose that produce mucus to keep your nasal passages nice and moist and trap dust or allergens.
- Allergies—on the other hand—are when your immune system freaks out on things that don’t actually harm you, like pollen, dust, or mold.
When the two get all mixed up, inflammation and blockage can lead to sinusitis – and that’s a common enough condition that ENT specialists like Dr. Sanjay Teza see all the time.
1. Spring Season – The Great Pollen Spew
Springtime in India, especially in Varanasi, is usually when allergy flare-ups happen. When plants release pollen into the air to go about their business of reproducing, people who are sensitive to pollen get pretty bad symptoms, like:
- Sneezing till your face is sore.
- Runny or blocked nose—basically can’t breathe properly.
- Watery eyes—like you’ve been crying for hours.
- An itchy throat that drives you bonkers
Why does it happen?
When you breathe in pollen, your body gets the wrong idea & thinks it’s a big threat – so it releases histamines & before you know it, the nasal passages get all inflamed—that’s allergic rhinitis or hay fever
What to do:
Dr Sanjay Teza reckons keeping windows shut when pollen is flying about, using air purifiers at home & washing your face after being outside all day would be a good start.
2. Summer Season—When the Dust Gets Thick
In the summer, when North India is as dry & dusty as it gets, sinus & respiratory problems are bound to get worse. It’s not just dust mites & pollution—it’s the dry air too – all of which irritate the nasal lining chronically. And to make things worse, dehydration just makes the mucus get even thicker, so your sinuses can’t clear themselves properly.
Symptoms get even worse:
- Dry nose & throat—a right old pleasure.
- Sinus pressure or a headache that just won’t budge.
- Blocked up nasal passages—basically, you can’t breathe.
3. Monsoon Season – The Mould Menace
Monsoon brings relief from the heat but introduces another villain—humidity. A damp environment encourages mould growth, a major trigger for allergies and sinus infections.
Mold-Induced sinus symptoms:
- Nasal congestion
- Cough and postnasal drip
- Facial pressure
- Worsening of asthma or breathing problems
Precautions:
- Keep indoor spaces dry and well ventilated.
- Use a dehumidifier if needed.
- Clean air filters and remove visible mold.
According to Dr. Sanjay Teza, patients visit his ENT clinic in Varanasi during the monsoon with sinus infections caused by fungal spores. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent chronic sinusitis.
4. Winter Season – Cold Air and Viral Infections
Winters in Varanasi are cold, and cold air can dry out your nasal membranes, making them more prone to infection. Moreover, people tend to stay indoors with poor ventilation, and viruses spread more easily.
Winter sinus and allergy symptoms:
- Runny nose and sneezing
- Sinus pain and pressure
- Postnasal drip
- Fatigue and sore throat
What to do:
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes.
- Drink warm fluids like herbal tea and soup to thin out mucus.
- Get medical attention if symptoms persist for more than 10 days.
Dr Sanjay Teza says early treatment can prevent simple sinus congestion from turning into a bacterial sinus infection requiring antibiotics.
How Seasonal Allergies Affect Sinuses
Allergies inflame the lining of your nasal passages, which in turn affects the sinuses. When the openings of your sinuses get blocked, mucus cannot drain properly. This leads to:
- Facial pain or pressure
- Headaches
- Nasal congestion
- Thick nasal discharge
- Loss of smell
Prolonged exposure to allergens can lead to chronic sinusitis, a condition that lasts more than 12 weeks. Dr. Sanjay Teza, an experienced ENT doctor in Varanasi, advises patients not to ignore prolonged sinus symptoms, as they may indicate deeper underlying issues.
Immunity and Seasonal Changes
Your immunity plays a major role in how your body reacts to allergens and seasonal changes. Factors like stress, poor sleep or lack of nutrition can weaken immunity, making you more prone to allergies and infections.
To boost your immunity:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Stay hydrated and exercise regularly.
- Sleep well.
- Manage stress with meditation or yoga.
Dr. Sanjay Teza always advises lifestyle modifications along with medical treatment for long-term relief from recurring sinus and allergy problems.
When to See an ENT Specialist
While mild sinus and allergy symptoms can be managed at home, it’s time to visit an ENT specialist in Varanasi if you have:
- Severe or persistent nasal congestion for more than 10 days
- High fever
- Facial swelling or pain
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Difficulty breathing through your nose
Dr. Sanjay Teza offers advanced treatment options for sinus and allergy issues, including:
- Nasal endoscopy
- Allergy testing
- Sinus imaging (CT scan)
- Medical management and surgical procedures, when needed
Treatment Options for Sinus and Allergy Problems
Depending on your condition and severity, treatment may include:
- Medications
- Antihistamines
- Nasal corticosteroids
- Decongestants
- Antibiotics (for bacterial infections)
- Nasal Irrigation: Regular saline rinse helps to clear allergens and mucus from the nasal passages.
- Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): Recommended for long-term allergy management by desensitizing your immune response.
- Sinus Surgery: In severe or chronic cases, Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) may be performed by an ENT specialist like Dr Sanjay Teza to open blocked sinuses and restore drainage.
Preventive Measures for Seasonal Sinus and Allergy Relief
To stay ahead of the season:
- Monitor air quality and pollen counts.
- Shower after outdoor exposure to remove allergens.
- Keep bedding and curtains clean.
- Avoid smoking or secondhand smoke.
- Maintain humidity indoors (40–50%).
Also Read: https://drsanjayteza.in/sinus-infection-treatment-in-varanasi/
Conclusion
Seasonal changes may be unavoidable, but sinus and allergy discomfort doesn’t have to be. With expert guidance from Dr. Sanjay Teza, the best ENT specialist in Varanasi, you can prevent, manage, and overcome these seasonal challenges effectively.
If you’re struggling with sinus pain, nasal congestion, or seasonal allergies, book your appointment with Dr. Sanjay Teza ENT Center today and breathe freely all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I tell if I have allergies or a sinus infection?
Allergies cause symptoms like itching, sneezing, and watery eyes, while sinus infections often result in thick nasal discharge, facial pain, and fever. A consultation with an ENT specialist in Varanasi can help you identify the cause accurately.
2. Can allergies turn into sinus infections?
Yes. Untreated allergies can cause chronic inflammation in nasal passages, leading to blockage and bacterial sinus infections.
3. Are sinus problems common in Varanasi?
Due to pollution, humidity, and seasonal weather variations, sinus issues are quite common in Varanasi. Consulting Dr. Sanjay Teza, a trusted ENT doctor in Varanasi, can help you manage them effectively.
4. What is the best home remedy for sinus congestion?
Steam inhalation, saline nasal rinses, and staying hydrated are simple yet effective remedies. However, if symptoms persist, medical evaluation is necessary.
5. Does diet affect sinus and allergy problems?
Yes. Anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, garlic, turmeric, and vitamin C-rich fruits can support sinus health and reduce allergic reactions.
