Sharp temperature swings increase risk of colds and allergic rhinitis

As South Korea experiences a sharp drop in temperatures between morning and evening, exceeding 15 degrees Celsius, health experts are warning of a rise in respiratory illnesses. The shift from summer's humidity to autumn's dry air weakens the nasal passages, making them vulnerable to irritants like fine dust and allergens.

This change in weather can trigger or worsen allergic rhinitis, whose symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and congestion often mimic those of a common cold. While many dismiss persistent nasal issues as simple rhinitis, the underlying causes can be diverse, ranging from seasonal allergies exacerbated by pollen and dust mites to structural problems within the nose.

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Many patients mistake nasal congestion for simple rhinitis and leave it untreated, but the causes are varied, from allergic rhinitis to conditions requiring surgical intervention. If nasal congestion symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek a precise diagnosis from an ENT specialist and find a personalized treatment method to overcome the symptoms.

Doctors emphasize that prolonged nasal congestion, especially if it lasts over a week, warrants a visit to an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Conditions like deviated septums or nasal valve stenosis can cause significant blockage, particularly when nasal membranes swell due to dry air. Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinuses, presents with thick nasal discharge, post-nasal drip, headaches, and reduced sense of smell.

"Many patients mistake nasal congestion for simple rhinitis and leave it untreated, but the causes are varied, from allergic rhinitis to conditions requiring surgical intervention," said Kim Soo-jin, a professor at Kangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital's ENT department. "If nasal congestion symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek a precise diagnosis from an ENT specialist and find a personalized treatment method to overcome the symptoms."

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Allergic rhinitis and the common cold often coexist in the same patient, exacerbating each other's symptoms. A meticulous approach is needed to accurately identify the problem and treat it appropriately.