Dr. Schalch Lepe, an ENT specialist at SoCal Breathe Free San Diego, has highlighted the impact of sudden weather shifts on sinus-related pressure headaches. He said that these changes can particularly affect individuals with chronic sinus disease or nasal congestion. The statement was made on Instagram on September 24, 2024.
"Huge weather variations that we've been experiencing. I mean, you saw it on your forecast. There's 20-degree variations from one day to the next," said Lepe, according to Instagram. "A lot of people have a susceptibility to have what's called barometric headaches or pressure headaches, particularly if you have an underlying chronic sinus disease or nasal congestion. You will feel changes in that pressure, but basically feeling like pressure in your head, pressure in your forehead, your temple areas, even your ears will feel clogged up. That is more a chronic condition, certainly aggravated by the changes in the weather."
According to the Cleveland Clinic, rapid changes in barometric pressure can significantly affect those with sinus conditions, leading to headaches and sinus pressure. These symptoms occur as the pressure differences between the external environment and the sinus cavities cause discomfort, especially during storms or abrupt temperature changes.
Medical News Today reports that variations in atmospheric pressure can create an imbalance within the sinus cavities, resulting in headaches. This occurs because the body struggles to adapt quickly to external changes, affecting both ears and sinus structures. Individuals with chronic sinus issues may be more susceptible to these barometric pressure-induced headaches.
Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat chronic sinusitis by widening blocked sinus passageways. According to Cedars-Sinai, this technique uses a small, flexible balloon catheter to open up blocked sinuses, restoring normal drainage and function. The procedure is performed endoscopically and typically results in less pain, reduced risk of infection, minimal bleeding, and faster recovery compared to traditional sinus surgery.
Paul Schalch Lepe is a board-certified otolaryngologist at SoCal Breathe Free San Diego who specializes in treatments for sinus and sleep apnea. Born in Mexico City, he graduated from Universidad Anahuac Medical School and completed his residency at UC Irvine. He pursued a fellowship in rhinology and skull base surgery at UC San Diego and has been recognized as a Top Doctor by San Diego Magazine.
SoCal Breathe Free San Diego is located near UC San Diego Health in California and focuses on providing solutions for sinus, allergy, and sleep issues. Founded by Dr. Lepe, the clinic employs advanced technology such as balloon sinuplasty and in-office CT imaging to address conditions like sinusitis that impact oral health and breathing.
