How to Avoid Sinus Infections in San Antonio’s Humid Summers
Summers in San Antonio are hot, sticky, and full of moisture in the air. While the humidity may help your skin feel soft, it’s not so kind to your sinuses. That heavy air can trap allergens, make it harder for your body to drain mucus, and increase the likelihood of sinus discomfort or infection.
At San Antonio Breathe Free, we see a rise in sinus issues every summer — and many may be preventable. With a few smart habits, you can keep your sinuses clear and avoid that familiar pressure, pain, and congestion.
Here’s how to stay ahead of it.
1. Keep Indoor Air Clean and Cool
Air conditioning is a must in the Texas heat, but it can dry out your nose and sinuses if you’re not careful. Dry air makes it harder for mucus to flow, which may contribute to buildup.
What to do:
- Use a humidifier indoors if your AC is running constantly. Aim for 30–50% humidity.
- Clean your AC filters regularly to avoid blowing dust and allergens into the air.
- If your nose feels dry, try a saline nasal spray once or twice a day to keep things moist.
2. Don’t Let Humidity Win
On the flip side, too much moisture — especially in closed spaces — can create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, potential triggers for sinus problems.
What to do:
- Use a dehumidifier in bathrooms or areas where dampness collects.
- Keep windows closed on high-humidity days to keep outside moisture out.
- Check for mold in places like air vents, basements, and under sinks.
3. Rinse Your Nose After Being Outside
Outdoor air during San Antonio summers can be packed with allergens like pollen, dust, and mold spores. These can stick to your nasal passages and cause irritation, swelling, or even an infection.
What to do:
- Use a saline rinse or neti pot at the end of the day to flush out your sinuses.
- Always use clean, filtered, or distilled water for rinsing.
- Blow your nose gently afterward to help clear everything out.
4. Stay Hydrated
Your sinuses need moisture to stay healthy. When you’re dehydrated, mucus becomes thick and sticky — which makes it more likely to clog and trap bacteria.
What to do:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re sweating.
- Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, which can dry you out.
- If your throat feels dry when you wake up, you may need to run a humidifier at night.
5. Know When It’s More Than Allergies
Sometimes, a sinus infection feels like allergies — at first. But if you start to notice facial pain, thick mucus, pressure around your eyes, or a fever, it may be something more persistent.
Chronic sinus infections or sinus problems that keep coming back may be a sign that something else is going on, like nasal blockages, polyps, or structural issues inside your nose.
When to Get Help
If you’ve tried these tips and still get sinus infections more than a few times a year — or if symptoms stick around for weeks — it may be time to see an ENT.
At San Antonio Breathe Free, we partner with patients to explore options that may provide lasting sinus relief. Whether it’s allergy testing, treatment options, or a closer look at what’s going on inside your sinuses, we’re here to help.
Don’t Let Humidity Win
If you’ve tried these tips and still find yourself dealing with sinus infections that won’t go away — or they just keep coming back — you don’t have to push through it alone.
It might not be “just allergies.” It could be chronic inflammation, anatomical issues, or another underlying cause.
Reach out to San Antonio Breathe Free to talk to someone who gets what you’re going through. We’ll listen, ask the right questions, and help you figure out your next step toward feeling better — no pressure, just information.
