Sniffles in the Tropics: The Hidden Struggle of Allergic Rhinitis
- GalenX
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read

The Philippines is known for its tropical climate, which consists mainly of two major seasons: the dry season (tag-init) and the rainy season (tag-ulan). But while we’re used to the sudden weather shifts, our noses often are not.
Many Filipinos experience nasal symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and post-nasal drip, during changes in the weather. These are common signs of allergic rhinitis, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including a large number here in the Philippines.
What is Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction that happens when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or pet dander. In tropical countries like the Philippines, humidity, pollution, and sudden weather changes are major triggers.
According to the Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (PSAAI), allergic rhinitis affects up to 20–30% of Filipinos, many of whom are unaware that their symptoms are not just “simple colds.”
How Philippine Weather Triggers Allergic Rhinitis
The Philippines’ unique climate contributes to higher exposure to allergens. Here’s how:
1. Sudden Temperature Changes
Moving between hot outdoor air and cold air-conditioned rooms is common in the Philippines.
This rapid temperature change stimulates the nasal nerves, leading to non-allergic rhinitis. A form of inflammation that mimics allergic rhinitis symptoms even without allergens.
2. High Humidity and Frequent Rain
The rainy season (usually June to November) increases humidity, which promotes the growth of mold and the survival of dust mites, two of the most common indoor allergens.
3. Dry and Windy Weather
The dry season (December to May), especially during El Niño, increases airborne particles like dust, pollen, and vehicle emissions.
The wind carries these irritants into homes and offices, making exposure unavoidable.
4. Air Pollution
Urban centers like Metro Manila suffer from poor air quality due to traffic, construction, and industrial activities
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to fine particles (PM2.5) can worsen nasal inflammation and allergic reactions.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Allergic rhinitis can be seasonal or year-round. Common signs include:
Sneezing fits (especially in the morning)
Runny or congested nose
Itchy nose, throat, or eyes
Post-nasal drip (feeling of mucus dripping in the throat)
Fatigue or headache due to poor sleep from nasal congestion
Tips to Reduce Allergen Exposure in Changing Weather
Keep windows closed during windy days or high pollen hours (early morning)
Wash bedsheets weekly with hot water to kill dust mites.
Use dehumidifiers or fans to control indoor humidity.
Shower after being outside to remove allergens from skin and hair
Always have Snizel® ready when you feel nasal symptoms coming on.

Snizel®: Targeted Relief for Weather-Related Nasal Allergies
When allergic rhinitis strikes, you need fast, effective, and safe relief. Snizel® is intended to be used for nasal hygiene. Helps relieve clogged nose and other nasal illnesses.
What Makes Snizel® Ideal for Filipinos?
✅ Works on both allergic and non-allergic rhinitis
✅ Fast-acting nasal relief—ideal for sudden weather changes
✅ Safe for regular use during allergy-prone seasons
Whether you’re exposed to allergens at home, in public transportation, or at the office, Snizel® helps you breathe better and live more comfortably.
The weather in the Philippines may be unpredictable, but your allergy relief doesn’t have to be. With the rising rates of allergic rhinitis and increasing exposure to airborne irritants, it’s time to take your nasal health seriously.
Trust Snizel® to give your nose the comfort it deserves—rain or shine, tag-init, or tag-ulan.
Reference:
Relief, K. S. (2025, May 27). Does weather affect sinuses? Kaplan Sinus Relief.https://www.kaplansinusrelief.com/blog/does-weather-affect-sinuses/
Doctor, S. (2023, August 3). Unraveling the impact of weather on sinus health - SinusDoctor.SinusDoctor.https://www.sinusdoctor.com/impact-of-weather-on-sinus-health/
Abong, J. M., Kwong, S. L., Alava, H. D. A., Castor, M. a. R., & De Leon, J. C. (2012). Prevalence of allergic rhinitis in Filipino adults based on the National Nutrition and Health Survey 2008. Asia Pacific Allergy, 2(2), 129–135. https://doi.org/10.5415/apallergy.2012.2.2.129
AllergicRhinitis(HayFever).(2025,June2).ClevelandClinichttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8622-allergic-rhinitis-hay-fever
Mph,Z.S.(2024,August16).Weatherchangeallergies:Aretheypossible?https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/weather-change-allergies
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