Why Dust Control in Arizona Is Crucial for Nasal Health

Posted on by Goodyear Office

The hot, dry heat Arizona experiences year-round is the perfect combo to create swirling dust clouds. One way that this can impact your health is by triggering a condition called nonallergic rhinitis.

What is Nonallergic Rhinitis?

Nonallergic rhinitis is a condition that displays allergy symptoms, like sneezing, congestion, coughing or postnasal drip, but doesn’t stem from allergens. The reaction occurs when something causes the blood vessels in the nose to dilate, filling the nasal tissue and triggering rhinitis symptoms.

What Causes Nonallergic Rhinitis?

Truck on a Dirt Road

It can be hard to pinpoint the exact cause of nonallergic rhinitis, especially when it pops up consistently, but common triggers include:

  • Weather changes
  • Illness
  • Certain foods or drinks
  • Certain medications
  • Hormone change
  • Poor sleep
  • Environmental irritants like dust or smog

If you’re living in Goodyear or Phoenix, dust is high on the list of culprits.

How Can I Manage Dust Exposure?

Arizona has strict dust control laws. Businesses and contractors must follow dust control permits, but you can do your part too! Take the following tips into consideration:

  • Avoid leaf blowers. Leaf blowers are fast and easy, but they also kick up tremendous amounts of dust. Gently raking or sweeping is a great way to clear debris without excessive dust exposure.
  • Be careful on dirt roads. If you’re going hiking or out to the desert, make sure you’re driving slowly on dirt roads to minimize the amount of dust your vehicle stirs. It’s also a good idea to drive with your windows rolled up to reduce dust in your car.
  • Water your dirt. This tip sounds silly, but it’s very effective and recommended by the Arizona Department of Transportation for all construction sites. You can mist your lawn gently in the morning to compact the soil and prevent it from billowing around your yard.
  • Wear a mask. People use masks in woodshops to minimize exposure to wood dust, and they can also help with dust in Arizona. If we’re having a dust storm or the dust is aggravating your nose or asthma, consider wearing a mask when you’re leaving your house.

If you’re unsure whether dust is the cause behind your nasal symptoms, contact Goodyear Office today. Our providers will conduct an exam and review your symptoms to find and manage your triggers.