As ENT specialists, we’re well-versed in how the ear, nose and throat systems are interconnected, and we also know the ears, nose and throat are all quite susceptible to infection, especially in the summer. Let’s discuss why that is and how you can prevent an uncomfortable infection.
Summer Irritants and Infection Risks
Summer is the time for fun in the sun! But amid all the play, you may be exposed to some common infection hazards.
- Allergens. Summer is grass pollen season, which is peak allergy season for many people. If you have a sensitivity to pollen or other allergens that might be in the air, inhaling them can cause irritation and inflammation, which can lead to infection.
- Dust. While dust is an allergen and may therefore cause allergy-related irritation, it can also irritate those without a dust allergy, especially when dusty particles become trapped in the mucus of the nose and throat.
- Water. Bacteria love wet, warm, dark environments; after a long day at the pool or beach, you might get water stuck in your ear, creating the ideal conditions for bacteria to grow.
- Air pressure changes. Temperature swings in the summer can cause sudden changes in the air (or barometric) pressure. The insides of our heads, specifically the sinus chambers behind the face, are sensitive to pressure changes. That’s why you might notice congestion if the barometric pressure changes suddenly.
- Dehydration. Your body needs water to power the immune system and fight infection. Dehydration makes fighting infections much harder on the body. Of course, being out in the heat all day can deplete your water reserves, leading to dehydration or heat exhaustion.
How to Protect Yourself
We want you to have a busy, fun, fulfilling summer without worrying about an ear infection, sinus infection or upper respiratory infection. Here are some basic ways to protect yourself.
Protecting Against Ear Infections
The biggest ear hazard in the summer is trapped water. An outer ear infection, aptly nicknamed “swimmer’s ear,” can be painful, especially in children, who are prone to them. To protect against an outer ear infection, dry your ears thoroughly after swimming, and if you feel any water trapped in your ears, try to drain it out by tilting your head to the side and pulling on your earlobe or working your jaw.
Additionally, a middle ear infection can be a byproduct of sinus issues, as inflamed sinuses can affect or impede the ears and Eustachian tubes. Therefore, protecting yourself from the sinus-related hazards, which we’ll discuss in a moment, will also protect your ears.
Protecting Against Sinus Infections
Sinus infections, or sinusitis, are characterized by congestion, a runny nose, thick mucus discharge (often colored yellow or green) and in some cases, a fever. Almost all the hazards listed above can cause sinusitis.
Protect yourself by controlling your allergies—either through prevention, medications or allergist-approved treatment—and avoid breathing in irritants, such as dust, pollen or air pollution. Wear a mask when outdoors on dusty, dry days to limit the irritants you breathe in.
You can also help keep your nasal passageways clear and hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier to moisturize the inside of your nose. This will help with mucus drainage, preventing buildup in the sinus chambers that can become infected.
Protecting Against Upper Respiratory Infections
Finally, let’s discuss protecting your throat and breathing passageways. Irritation in the throat during the summer months will often be the result of postnasal drip, or mucus draining from the sinuses down into the throat. Sometimes, this mucus will carry irritants in it, such as dust or allergens, and when that happens, it can cause irritation and a sore throat. Protect yourself from this by managing sinus symptoms as discussed above, and by staying hydrated, so the mucus drainage remains clear and healthy.
When to Seek Help
If you do develop an infection in your ears, nose or throat, give us a call at ENT & Allergy Specialists – Ear Nose and Throat Physicians and Surgeons. We can discuss ways to alleviate your symptoms and advise you on when you need to visit the clinic for in-person medical attention.