5 Habits That Make Sinus Infections Worse in St. Louis, MO

Five Habits That May Be Worsening Your Sinus Infection in St. Louis, MO (And What You Can Do About Them)

Let’s explore five simple everyday habits that you may have no idea could be making your sinus infection and problems even worse:

1. You’re dehydrated

During normal sinus function, the sinuses naturally produce mucus, which humidifies the air we breathe and traps and eliminates allergens and irritants.

Dehydration can potentially worsen your sinus problems, especially if you’re already dealing with an ongoing sinus infection. When you’re dehydrated, the sinuses produce thick and sticky mucus, which is less efficient at doing its job.

Moreover, thick and sticky mucus may cause buildup, nasal congestion, and breathing problems.

✅ What you should do instead: keep yourself hydrated

Proper hydration can support your overall health, as well as help maintain normal mucus consistency and promote proper mucus flow and drainage.

Drinking plenty of water to keep yourself well hydrated can help combat this.

2. Your air is too dry

Fluctuating humidity levels can make sinus issues worse or more persistent.

Not only is dry air irritating to the skin, but it can also potentially impact the sinuses with the same drying and irritating effects.

Drier air may potentially dry the mucus membranes, causing irritation in the nasal and sinus passages. This may lead to thicker mucus in some sensitive individuals. As mentioned above, thick and sticky mucus becomes less efficient in flowing and draining irritants.

✅ What you should do instead: run an indoor humidifier

You can combat dry air by running an indoor humidifier to help improve indoor moisture levels. Running an indoor humidifier, especially in your bedroom during sleep, may help soothe irritated sinuses and support proper mucus flow and drainage.

3. You’re ignoring potential allergens and irritants in the air

For sinus infections and issues that seem to be getting worse, rather than getting better, allergies may be one of many contributing factors.

If you’re ignoring potential allergy triggers, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, smoke, perfume, cologne, and other irritants, then your symptoms may be exacerbated, with an increased risk for further irritation and inflammation.

✅ What you should do instead: pay attention to your allergy triggers

You can’t 100% avoid St. Louis seasonal allergens, such as ragweed. However, there are ways you can stay on top of them, such as:

• Monitor daily allergen counts
• Wear a protective mask if you’re heading out, especially during peak allergy seasons
• Keep your home and working spaces clean
• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid smoking, especially if you have a sinus infection
• Stop wearing perfumes and colognes in the meantime, if you have a sinus infection

4. You’re overusing nasal decongestant sprays

Nasal decongestant sprays are a common and sought-after medication for sinus infections. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which may reduce swelling and potentially offer temporary relief from chronic nasal congestion and breathing difficulties.

The problem comes from overusing the spray, which can further irritate the sinuses and worsen existing sinus problems, known as rebound congestion. This can potentially create a cycle of medication dependency and increased congestion.

✅ What you should do instead: focus on proper nasal hygiene

While you don’t have to completely stop the use of nasal decongestant sprays, it has, after all, merits of use. The key is to only use them as directed. Usually, it’s recommended not to use them for more than three days.

Additionally, practice proper nasal hygiene:

• Rinse your nasal passages with saline water.
• Irrigate the nasal passages with a neti pot. This may help reduce mucus buildup. Always follow device instructions for proper use and only use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water to reduce the risk of infection resulting from improper use.

5. You’re not getting enough sleep (and you’re sleeping in the wrong position)

If you’re not getting enough sleep every night, you’re not helping your immune system fight the infection. Additionally, sleeping in the wrong position every night can cause mucus to pool in the sinuses, which can worsen nasal congestion during sleep.

✅ What you should do instead: get adequate sleep (and sleep in the correct position)

Adequate sleep and proper rest can help support overall health and immune system function. Getting enough sleep is especially important if you’re battling an ongoing infection.

Get at least eight hours of sleep every night to aid recovery. If you’re already feeling unwell, you might also want to take it easy during the day so as not to exert too much energy.

When you’re sleeping, it’s best to elevate your head, as this may help mucus to flow more efficiently and help you get better sleep at night.

Commonly Asked Questions About Sinus Infections in St. Louis, MO

What is a sinus infection?

A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, is the irritation and inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses, which can cause mucus buildup, nasal congestion, and facial pressure. The sinuses are hollow, air-filled spaces located behind the nose, cheeks, and forehead that naturally produce mucus to humidify the air we breathe and trap and eliminate irritants. Sometimes, they become irritated and swollen, causing fluid buildup.

What does an ENT in St. Louis, MO, do?

An ENT, also known as an otolaryngologist, diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the ears, nose, throat, neck, and related facial structures. Common conditions that they may address include sinus infections, allergies, ear infections, hearing disorders, throat problems, balance concerns (such as dizziness and vertigo, and sleep-related breathing problems (such as snoring and sleep apnea).

When is it time to see an otolaryngologist in St. Louis, MO, for sinus issues?

While some sinus issues may improve on their own, persistent, recurring, or severe sinus problems may benefit from seeing a qualified local ENT specialist in St. Louis, MO, chosen based on individual healthcare needs and concerns.

Looking for ENT Care Services in St. Louis, MO

St. Louis Sinus Center provides ear, nose, and throat care services in St. Louis, Festus, and the nearby Missouri communities. Visit and explore our website for more information about our clinic and the services we provide.