ENT-Friendly Holiday Prep: Allergy and Sinus Tips for Surprise Families

The holidays in Surprise, Arizona bring cooler air, family gatherings, and festive decorations — but they can also bring sniffles, congestion, and sneezing for people with allergies or sinus issues. Between indoor dust, scented candles, and dry desert air, it’s easy for seasonal fun to turn into sinus frustration.

At Oasis ENT, we care about helping families in Surprise enjoy the holidays comfortably. Here are some ENT-approved ways to prevent allergy flare-ups and keep your sinuses healthy all season long.

1. Keep Dust and Dander in Check

Holiday decorating often means pulling boxes out of storage — and with them, plenty of dust and pet dander. Before hanging lights or ornaments, wipe down decorations with a damp cloth and vacuum storage areas.

If you’re hosting guests, remember that increased foot traffic (and furry visitors) can stir up allergens. Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter in shared living spaces, and wash bedding before guests arrive. These steps may help reduce allergy triggers at home for some individuals.

2. Manage Arizona’s Dry Winter Air

Unlike other parts of the country, Arizona’s winter air is dry and can irritate nasal passages. This dryness can make sinuses more sensitive and worsen congestion.

To help ease the effects:

• Run a humidifier in bedrooms to keep indoor air moist.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Use a saline nasal spray to gently rinse and moisturize nasal passages.

These steps may help some people support sinus comfort and reduce irritation during the season.

3. Watch Out for Indoor Allergy Triggers

Scented candles, wood-burning fireplaces, and artificial sprays can all worsen sinus pressure and allergy symptoms. Try choosing unscented candles or battery-powered decorations instead.

For Christmas trees, both real and artificial options can cause issues — real trees can carry mold, and fake trees collect dust over time. Rinse live trees with water before bringing them indoors and dust off artificial ones before decorating.

Taking a few preventive steps can help reduce holiday allergies in Surprise, AZ, and make gatherings more comfortable for everyone.

4. Clean the Air (and Filters)

Air quality matters year-round, but especially when homes are closed up for the winter. Dirty HVAC filters can spread dust and pollen throughout your home, even when outdoor air feels crisp and clean.

Replace air filters every 1–2 months, especially if you have pets or allergies. Consider using a MERV 11 or 13-rated filter, which can trap smaller particles like pollen and mold spores.

Regular filter changes are one of the simplest ways to support allergy prevention at home in AZ.

5. When to See a Sinus Doctor in Surprise

If congestion, facial pressure, or postnasal drip last more than 10 days, it may be time to check in with an ENT. Persistent congestion, pressure, or drainage may warrant a specialist evaluation to determine whether chronic sinusitis, allergies, or another cause may be involved.

An ENT specialist can review your symptoms and may recommend tests to help guide next steps in care.

At Oasis ENT in Surprise, we offer personalized evaluations and care that may support symptom reduction for some individuals — helping you pursue breathing comfort this holiday season.

Enjoy a Healthier Holiday Season

Allergy and sinus care don’t have to take a break during the holidays. With a few preventive steps and timely support, families in Surprise, AZ can make the most of the season — without the sneezing.

If you’re ready to learn more about managing allergies or sinus issues this winter, schedule a visit at our ENT clinic in Surprise to explore your options.