Why is my rhinitis worse every winter on heating at 49?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern

I am sorry you have to deal with these symptoms every winter; persistent rhinitis can be frustrating and exhausting. Based on what you described, both factors may be contributing to your symptoms.

Dry, heated indoor air can dry out and irritate the lining of the nose, making it more inflamed and sensitive, while turning on the heating system can also circulate dust, including dust mites and other indoor allergens.

Since your allergy testing showed a moderate dust mite sensitivity and an elevated total IgE, exposure to dust mites is likely playing an important role as well.

At 49, this pattern is not unusual, and many people notice their symptoms worsen during the heating season because they spend more time indoors, where allergen exposure is greater, and the air is drier.

Measures such as regular saline nasal rinses, using a humidifier if indoor humidity is very low, reducing dust mite exposure with allergen-proof bedding covers and frequent washing of bedding in hot water, and continuing appropriate allergy medications as advised by your doctor can often provide meaningful relief.

So please try to follow up if you feel this answer would be helpful for you.

And I hope you will feel better soon.

Thank you.