For many Filipinos, especially in areas like Baguio where heat and humidity are trapped indoors during the warmer months, nasal congestion, sneezing, or a never-ending post-nasal drip might seem like a minor nuisance. But what seems like a “trangkaso” or common cold that never quite leaves may actually be allergic rhinitis, or worse, chronic sinusitis.
On Health Matters, host Doc Tong Untalan, an ENT/head and neck surgeon at the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), breaks down these often misunderstood but very common conditions. About 1 in 5 Filipinos suffer from allergic rhinitis, and millions more deal with sinusitis, many without even knowing the difference between the two or what’s causing their discomfort.
What exactly are we breathing in?
Allergic rhinitis is triggered by allergens, those tiny particles that may not be visible to the eye but cause big problems in the respiratory system. These include dust mites, mold spores, pollen, pet dander, and even cockroach droppings.
Indoors, where air circulation is sometimes poor, these allergens become trapped and can easily irritate the nasal passages. The high humidity common in many parts of the Philippines, including inside poorly ventilated homes, allows mold and dust mites to thrive, exacerbating symptoms.
When a person with allergic rhinitis inhales these allergens, the immune system overreacts.
The result?
Swollen nasal passages, sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, and an itchy throat. For sinusitis, on the other hand, the issue lies in blocked or inflamed sinuses—air-filled spaces in the skull. When these areas become clogged, usually due to an infection or allergy-related swelling, pressure builds up and pain sets in, typically behind the eyes, forehead, or cheeks.
When a cold isn’t just a cold
What many mistake for a lingering cold may be chronic sinusitis, especially if the symptoms have lasted more than 10 days or occur repeatedly throughout the year. Headaches, facial pain, thick nasal discharge, and even fatigue could signal that what you have is more than just a seasonal allergy.
If left untreated, sinusitis can lead to serious health complications. In rare cases, the infection can spread to nearby structures, including the bones (osteomyelitis) or even the brain (meningitis). Recurrent allergic rhinitis, on the other hand, can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and lead to sleep disturbances and the worsening of asthma or ear infections.
What can you do about it?
Preventing allergic rhinitis and sinusitis begins with controlling the environment. Regular cleaning, using dehumidifiers, washing bedding in hot water, and ensuring pets don’t sleep in bedrooms can make a big difference. Avoiding strong smells, cigarette smoke, and pollution is also helpful.
If symptoms persist or keep coming back, visit a specialist. Treatment varies depending on the cause but may include antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, saline irrigation, and antibiotics in cases of bacterial sinusitis. Immunotherapy (or allergy shots) may be considered for those with severe allergic triggers.
Recent advances also include newer, more targeted allergy medications and less invasive sinus procedures for those with chronic issues.
For people who experience frequent nasal congestion or facial pressure, it’s important not to self-medicate without guidance. Overusing nasal decongestant sprays, for instance, can cause rebound congestion and make the problem worse.
Still suffering from a stuffy nose?
If you’re experiencing frequent sneezing fits, headaches, or nasal pain that seems to come and go or never leaves, pay attention. Don’t shrug off these symptoms.
See your doctor, especially if over-the-counter meds aren’t helping or if symptoms are interfering with your daily routine.
Learn more on this week’s episode of Health Matters with Doc Tong Untalan, where the goal is simple: to keep every Filipino breathing easier and living healthier.
Tune in to Health Matters every Saturday at 9 AM on the Baguio Chronicle’s official Facebook page or catch all past episodes on YouTube.
